CELESTIAL GENERALS

Skanda (Chinese Weituo)

Skanda (Chinese Weituo)

Deity
Skanda
Sculpture Type
Bronze Sculpture
Dynasty
Ming Dynasty
Date / Period
Ming dynasty (1368–1644), early 17th century
Institution
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Collection
Asian Art
Medium / Material
Gilt brass; lost-wax cast
Dimensions
H. 12 3/4 in. (32.4 cm); W. 8 3/4 in. (22.2 cm); D. 5 in. (12.7 cm)
Accession Number
2002.254
Source
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Open Access, object 64897.

Description

Skanda (Chinese Weituo). Figure; Ming dynasty (1368–1644), early 17th century; Gilt brass; lost-wax cast.
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.

Iconography & Attributes

The vajra pestle held by Skanda (Weituo Bodhisattva) is a symbol of Buddhist protection and his role as a Dharma guardian. In Chinese Buddhist traditions, the vajra pestle is regarded as a weapon used to subdue demons and evil forces. Weituo is commonly depicted holding it in one of three positions: resting it on his shoulder with the tip pointing upward, holding it horizontally before his chest, or standing it upright on the ground. This sculpture adopts the latter posture.