Tentōki and Ryūtōki

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Tentōki and Ryūtōki (木造天燈鬼立像 mokuzō tentōki ritsuzō) and (木造竜燈鬼立像 mokuzō ryūtōki ritsuzō) are a pair of demon-like creatures in Japanese folklore. They are usually depicted as small oni, and symbolize the power of the Shitennō to repel and defeat evil.[1]

Kōben sculpted notable statues of Tentōki and Ryūtōki, each considered a National Treasure of Japan, carrying lanterns as offering to the Historical Buddha at Kōfuku-ji in Nara.[2]

See also[edit]

References[edit]

  1. ^ "SHITENNŌ in Japanese Art". Retrieved 2012-07-10.
  2. ^ Schumacher, Mark (2009). "Ishidoro". Japanese Buddhist Statuary. Retrieved 2009-09-16.