Chinese Figure of Aizen Myoo, the Wisdom King of Passion

Six arms, a ferocious face, and a lion's mane of flames rising behind the head.

This figure of Aizen Myoo, the Wisdom King of Passion, is from China, contemporary, in boxwood. Aizen Myoo is a guardian deity of esoteric Buddhism, generally understood to transform worldly desire into the aspiration for enlightenment, and is usually shown with a fierce expression and multiple arms. He sits cross-legged on a tiered lotus throne, holding implements in several hands. A tall crown rises above the glaring face, framed by a flaming nimbus and a large round halo. Petals and scrolling foliage are finely carved around the base. It is 9.25 inches high and 5.25 in diameter.

Carved with patience, which is fitting for a deity who masters passion.