Figures of Basara Taisho and Sanchira Taisho. Japan, Edo period, XVII-XVIII centuries.

Figures of Basara Taisho and Sanchira Taisho. Japan, Edo period, XVII-XVIII centuries.
Carved and polychrome wood.
Both are accompanied by a base of carved and polychrome wood.
In good condition, although parts are missing and have old restorations.
Measurements: 41 x 17 x 12 cm and 40 x 17 x 11,5 cm.

This pair of sculptures represents Basara Taisho and Sanchira Taisho, two of the Twelve Celestial Generals or generals who guarded Yakushi Nyorai, Tathagata, the Buddha who healed diseases and granted longevity. The fierce-looking deities wear armor over a robe, a floating scarf and a helmet. They were originally gods from India, the birthplace of Buddhism, but the Buddhist faith made them its own.
Basara Taisho is mainly associated with the animal figure of the ox, while Sanchira with the horse.
There is an important complete series with the twelve Heavenly Warriors preserved in the Kanmani Buddha Statues Museum. The museum states that most of the sculptures depicting the Twelve Heavenly Generals located in eastern Japan are believed to have been made between the Muromachi and Edo periods.