Kublai Khan ruled China, adapted its traditions and made Buddhism the state religion in the 13th century. In the period preceding this carving, Mongolian tradition preferred cremation for the dead. Since such ritual often is done in secrecy, as a result, few Mongolian tombs have been found in China to this day. This wood sculpture of a Mongolian warrior, is an effigy consecrated with a ritual blessing. Evidently there is a certain ritual offering embedded in the hallowed space in the statue, to which a large wood plug is secured to keep this substance in place untouched

       

Stylistically belongs to the Ming Eras (1368-1644), though time has diminished much of its former glory; the warrior class of this bulky Mongol figure is clearly indicated in the clenching fist of his right hand, and the militant mudra (Tarjani) of his left hand and seated posture. There are burn marks and extensive gilt loss in the back. The lacquered and painted front is largely intact. The statue is a rare shrine statue which documented the Mongolian's assimilation in the Chinese culture.