Wei Tuo Pusa, China, Early Ming Dynasty, 14-15th century. Height: 122 cm, 48 inches. Vanderven Oriental Art at Brafa Art Fair, Brussels, 21-29 january 2017.

This carved wooden figure, represents the Buddhist deity Wei Tuo Pusa. He has a compassionate expression, his eyes inlaid with black glass to make them more lively. The wooden surface has traces of pigment, lacquer and gilding.

Wei Tuo, also known as the Hindu bodhisattva Skanda, is one of the eight deities that protects the principles of Buddhism. In most portrayals he appears in full general’s armour, in his role as defender of the Buddhist teachings. According to legend, when the Buddha died, demons stole his Book of Wisdom; Wei Tuo fought the demons to retrieve the book. He is usually placed in the first hall of a Buddhist monastery or temple and often represented together with the goddess Guanyin In Chinese sutras, his image is found at the end of the sutra, a reminder of his vow to protect and preserve the teachings. In the practice of Feng Shui, the image of Wei Tuo is often placed in the home. He ensures peace and harmony for all residents, protection for the patriarch, prosperity and luck for all.

Provenance: with Roger Keverne, United Kingdom (2004

Vanderven Oriental Art. Chinese early ceramics from the Han & Tang Periods, Ming & Qing porcelains & works of art including Jades, Bronzes, hardstones and wood. Japanese porcelains, 20th century lacquer & bronzes. Nachtegaalslaantje 1, 5211 LE s-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands.