Vintage Chinese Carved Polychrome Nio Guardian Dharmapala Wood Statue 17”H 金剛

A well-preserved hand-carved wood statue of the Golden Vairocana Guardian. The large carving is broad with the characterization of the demon-repelling protector, seen in an aggressive display of physical strength, with bulging eyes and menacing expressions. Dressed in intricately wrought armor, along with a sneer of force blowing the flying sash wraps around him like cords made of gold; in clenched fists, his left hand struck forth, and a raised right hand about to hammer down. The ferocious guardian is poised in a martial art stance towering above a silvery lava rock pedestal. The carving is intricate and extensive; patterns of crossed lines on the armor are punctuated with copper protective shields, which radiates and flashes like flickering flame. In contrast to the formality of the figure, the face is modeled with vitality and sensitivity with god-like serenity. The countenance of the Dharmapala is alert, youthful and open, with full cheeks, a long thick nose and a full-lipped curving mouth with traces of crimson red. This is a work full of life and an unusual freshness of spirit. In good condition.