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The Buddhist king of passion Ragaraja (Aizen Myoo)
The Buddhist king of passion Ragaraja (Aizen Myoo)

The Buddhist king of passion Ragaraja (Aizen Myoo)

Place of OriginJapan
Date1600-1700
PeriodEdo period (1615-1868)
MaterialsWood with colors, gold, and crystal (eyes)
DimensionsH. 25 in x W. 23 in x D. 16 in, H. 63.5 cm x W. 58.4 cm x D. 40.6 cm
Credit LineThe Avery Brundage Collection
Object numberB60S9+
DepartmentJapanese Art
ClassificationsSculpture
On View
On view
Location
  • Gallery Location   Gallery 26
Text Entries

One of the Radiant Kings of esoteric Buddhism, Ragaraja embodies the concept that earthly desires, including carnal passion, can be a pathway to spiritual awakening. His fire-like red body, snarling face, six arms, and scowling lion’s-head adornment are meant to be frightening and awe-inspiring. In one of his hands, he holds a ritual thunderbolt. The five other arms once held other implements and weapons, including a bow and arrow. Worshipers historically appealed to this deity, popularly known as the god of love, for assistance in a range of material and spiritual matters.

Originally, Ragaraja would have been seated atop a lotus pedestal, now missing.

Subject
  • Buddhism
  • king
  • Buddha
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