About this artwork
The Dragon King, originally an Indian Hindu god, was gradually incorporated into the Buddhist pantheon. Veneration of this deity, who rules the seas, spread with Buddhism from India to China and, via Korea, to Japan; there the Dragon King was transformed into a Shinto god.
This figure and that of the monk Hyeja originally belonged to a group of 12 Shinto deities (kami) believed to have come from the Izumo district on the north coast of the island of Honshu. At least 10 of these sculptures are in American and Canadian collections. The group is believed to represent Shotoku Taishi, his family, and his advisors.
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Status
- On View, Gallery 103
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Department
- Arts of Asia
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Title
- Dragon King
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Place
- Japan (Object made in)
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Date
- 1001–1150
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Medium
- Magnolia wood with traces of pigment
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Dimensions
- H. 102.2 cm (40 1/4 in.)
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Credit Line
- Gift of Robert Allerton
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Reference Number
- 1957.242
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IIIF Manifest
- https://api.artic.edu/api/v1/artworks/5821/manifest.json
Extended information about this artwork
Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email . Information about image downloads and licensing is available here.
