Comes with Certificate of Authenticity Provided with unconditional 1 year return policy-Striking authentic (TL test, COA and Provenance included) Chinese Tang Dynasty, ca. 618 to 207 CE Lokapala / Guardian Figure. This large Lokapala-Buddhist warrior deity that served a mortuary role of "Protector of the Burial Vault". Looking at his stern face and gazing into his fierce eyes, we
understand why such works were intended to frighten away evil spirits. He stands triumphantly upon a recumbent ox with menacing expression. Warrior is adorned with elaborate armor and robe and pair of spherical ornaments that rest on his shoulder above a pair of dragon heads shoulder pads. Tang Dynasty artifact still retains pigment/ painting of white, black, and vermillion red hues. Size: 6.875" W x 16.625" H (17.46 cm x 42.22 cm ).
Comes with TL (THERMOLUMINESCENCE) Test as verification that piece has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. Also will provide certificate of authenticity from well respected gallery (where it was purchased) that deals in Antiquities.-Further Provenance: Barakat Gallery, Los Angeles, California, USA acquired before 2000
Condition: Loss to top of headdress helmet. Tip of tunic on front side is reattached. Surface abrasions and chips. Some losses and fading to pigments, but good remains throughout. Heavy earthen deposits throughout. TL hole on base and second TL on back of left arm.
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
Further -During the Tang Dynasty, restrictions were placed on the number of objects that could be
included in tombs, an amount determined by an individual's social rank. In spite of the
limitations, a striking variety of tomb furnishings have been excavated. Lokapalas were demonic guardians from Buddhist tradition that were believed to protect the deceased, and part of a group of 4 tomb figures composed of 2 lokapalas and 2 civil officials to represent each of the cardinal directions, and protectors of Buddhist beliefs. These figures were one of the few Buddhist themes depicted in Chinese funerary iconography. The faces of these lokapala are often depicted as foreigners to represent the cultural exchange and spread of Buddhism from other parts of Asia. This may be Virupaksha, Guardian King of the West, both fearsome and wrathful- trampling the ox underfoot is a sign of his might, with the aid of his sword, he could scare away tomb robbers and evil spirits.
Refunds and Exchanges
We accept returns within 30 days of the purchase of the item. However, the buyer is responsible for shipping the item back to us and that cost will not be refunded. We will refund your money for the item as soon as we receive the item back. Please send the item back to us with tracking or insured.