Artwork preview

Tobatsu Bishamonten

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Wooden statue of Tobatsu Bishamonten by artist Unkei. The statue depicts a large, imposing figure with a stern expression and a tall, rectangular headpiece. The figure has a large belly and is wearing a short skirt and a top with short sleeves. The right arm is raised with the palm facing outward. The left arm is at the side. The figure stands on a base with three smaller figures. The base has a rounded edge and a flat top. The background is grey, transitioning from dark at the top to light at the bottom.

Artwork details

Date:
late 10th–early 11th century
Medium:
Zelkova wood with traces of color
Culture:
Japan
Dimensions:
468 × 624 px
Museum record:
View original
Palette