Skip to main content

Buddhist Guardian, Weituo

1644-1911
Artist/maker unknown, Chinese
According to the Chinese Buddhist tradition, Weituo is a guardian deity credited with fighting off demons that stole the relics of the Buddha. He usually sports the appearance of a general, donning a tall helmet and a full suit of golden armor, secured at the waist with a belt adorned with a demon mask. Here Weituo holds a jeweled sword across both arms, a symbolic weapon that indicates his duty to guard the Buddhist Law.

Object Details

We are always open to learning more about our collections and updating the website. Does this record contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.