Japan
Shukongo-jin, Thunderbolt Deity
Kamakura period, 1185­1333
Wood with polychromy
ht.: 92.7 cm
Kate S. Buckingham Fund, 1958.120

Shukongo-jin, the “thunderbolt deity,” is a fierce protector of Buddhist teaching. The wildly expressive forms of his glittering eyes, grimacing mouth, snake-like swirl of hair, and rigid muscular posture demonstrate his supernatural powers. He grasps a thunderbolt, which symbolizes the power of wisdom to overcome ignorance and destroy evil.

According to a Japanese legend, a statue of Shukongo-jin once came to life and inspired some soldiers not to give up during a particularly furious battle. The next day, the statue was found in place at the temple but drenched in sweat, pierced by arrows, and missing parts of its headdress.