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
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette