Bishamonten is a Japanese god of war and a Buddhist protector of shrines and holy places. As one of the Seven Lucky Gods, he protects the great treasure pagoda of Buddhist offerings and divvies these out to faithful believers.

Bishamonten is a warrior, an armored war god most often depicted wielding a spear in one hand and a pagoda in the other. This sculpture, from the 1600’s, no longer has either. Bishamonten’s armor is atypical for Japanese warriors and reflects Bishamonten’s continental origins. His facial expressions are varied; here, he casts a serene look. He is unique among the Seven Lucky Gods in that he is the only warrior, and the only one who engages in violence, though, to be clear, it is only done to protect followers of Buddhism where they are worshipping.

This example has developed a rich patina after withstanding roughly 400 years of time. The feet of Bishamonten are joined to the base via his feet. The base itself is as elaborately crafted as Bishamonten himself and is constructed using wooden nails.

 17c. Japan

Wood

16” height