Vintage Chinese Iron Man God of War Kwan Yu Guardian Warrior Buddha Statue 關羽

Vintage Chinese Cast Iron Statue
Kwan Yu 關羽
God of War
Origin: China. Circa: early 20th century
H 8.5 in. (21.6cm), W 6 in. (15cm), D 5 in. (12.5cm)
Condition: very good!

Rich rustic patina, this finely cast iron statue is a forceful presence to behold. Kwan Yu, The God of War is dressed in full armor, from the soles of his feet to the etchings on his robe, the figure’s poise accentuated by the clarity of detail. He is calmly seated on a boulder with both hands resting on his knees, in a contemplative countenance that insinuates the presence of a Buddha. The legendary warrior is one of the most popular Chinese divinities honored and worshipped by both sides of the law. Kwan Yu (Japanese: Kanu) was a military general during the Three Kingdoms period (220-280). He played a significant role in the civil war that leads to the collapse of the Han dynasty, and over time has become one of the best known Chinese historical and mythological figures. He was later raised to the status of Emperor and ennobled to be the God of War, and God of Literature during the Mid Ming Dynasty. Kwan Yu is most famous for his characterization in the Chinese classic, Romance of the Three Kingdoms.