Two Celestial Generals, Japan, Edo Period, 17th Century.

Polychrome wooden sculptures on pedestals. They represent two celestial generals: one is Anira Taishō (Sanskrit: Anila), whose symbol is the dragon, and the other is Sanchira Taishō (Sanskrit: Sandilya), whose symbol is the serpent. Each of the twelve divine generals embodies the vow made by Jakushi (Bhaisajyaguru in Sanskrit), the Medicine Buddha, to heal the ailments of body and mind. Charged with protecting the faithful and defeating the enemies of Buddhism, they are depicted with menacing expressions, in armor, and in combat poses. In ancient times, they began to be associated with the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac.

Japan, Edo period, 17th century.

Height 30 cm, width 31 cm, depth 11 cm.

Translation of the text at the bottom of the work: Line 1: 木彫十二神将 辰・巳 (Mokuchō Jūni Shinshō Tatsu Mi) – Wooden sculptures of the twelve celestial generals: the dragon (Tatsu) and the serpent (Mi). Line 2: 江戸前期 (Edo Zenki) – Beginning of the Edo period (17th century). Line 3: 富山県氷見市 旧家蔵出し (Toyama-ken Himi-shi Kyūka Kuradashi) – From the collection of an old family of the Himi town, Toyama Prefecture.

Condition as seen in the photos, some missing parts visible.

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