Gushōjin

13th century

Not on view

The Gushōjin (Sanskrit: Sahadeva), a male and female duo that accompanies the king of hell, chronicle the good and bad deeds of individuals, quite literally looking over their shoulders. The male Gushōjin notes the good from his vantage point above the left shoulder. The sturdy vigilance of this sculpture reflects the Kamakura-period feeling for lifelike movement and expression.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

倶生神立像
Title: Gushōjin
Period: Kamakura period (1185–1333)
Date: 13th century
Culture: Japan
Medium: Wood with traces of pigment and lacquer
Dimensions: H. 18 3/8 in. (46.6 cm); W. 10 1/4 in. (26 cm); D. 4 3/4 in. (12.1 cm)
Classification: Sculpture
Credit Line: The Harry G. C. Packard Collection of Asian Art, Gift of Harry G. C. Packard, and Purchase, Fletcher, Rogers, Harris Brisbane Dick, and Louis V. Bell Funds, Joseph Pulitzer Bequest, and The Annenberg Fund Inc. Gift, 1975
Object Number: 1975.268.700a–c
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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