Heroic Ming Bodhisaatva Cast Iron Heads - Set of 2

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Description

This extraordinary pair of "Heroic" scale cast iron heads represents a rare survival of monumental Buddhist temple statuary from the … Read more This extraordinary pair of "Heroic" scale cast iron heads represents a rare survival of monumental Buddhist temple statuary from the Ming Dynasty. Standing at an impressive 34 inches (86 cm), these heads depict the two Great Bodhisattvas of the "Western Pure Land" triad—traditionally Avalokiteśvara (Guanyin) and Mahāsthāmaprāpta (Dashizhi).

Cast in heavy, thick-walled iron, the heads exhibit the serene, mask-like features characteristic of the high-Ming style, including downcast, almond-shaped eyes, pendulous earlobes, and a tranquil, enigmatic smile. Both figures are adorned with elaborate "Five Buddha" diadems (crowns), intricately cast with triads of seated Amitābha figures nestled within flaming mandorlas and cloud-form scrollwork.

Acquired in the mid-20th century, these fragments were professionally mounted on custom-designed tiered hardwood bases between the 1930s and 1950s. Notably, the bases feature bespoke incisions hand-scribed to perfectly accommodate the unique, jagged "neck-break" of each individual casting. This high-level "gallery mounting" ensures a secure, gravity-locked display for their significant mass (each weighing hundreds of pounds) and confirms their long-standing status as significant archaeological treasures in a private collection.

Period: Ming Dynasty (1368–1644)

Material: Cast Iron with oxidized patina; custom hardwood bases.

Height: 34 inches (86.4 cm) including mounts.

Weight: Several hundred pounds per head.

Condition: Excellent "as-found" archaeological condition. Expected surface oxidation and pitting consistent with age and material. No modern repairs to the iron. See less