Skanda (Chinese Weituo)

China

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 208

Skanda is a bodhisattva who is devoted to protecting Buddhist teachings and monasteries. Popularly known as Weituo in Chinese legend, he is often represented on the side or back of the Buddha in the main hall of the temple, dressed in full armor and holding in his hand his signature weapon, a large club (vajra), which is unfortunately missing in this surviving example.

Skanda (Chinese Weituo), Gilt brass; lost-wax cast, China

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