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The Buddhist guardian king Dhritarashtra
The Buddhist guardian king Dhritarashtra

The Buddhist guardian king Dhritarashtra

Place of OriginTsang, Tibet
Date1995
MaterialsColors on unfired clay
DimensionsH. 17 in x W. 11 in x D. 5 1/2 in, H. 43.2 cm x W. 27.9 cm x D.14.0 cm
Credit LineGift of Thomas Murray in honor of Glenn and Joan Vinson
Object numberF2013.56.11
DepartmentHimalayan Art
ClassificationsDecorative Arts
On View
On view
LocationGallery 12
More Information
Dhritarashtra, “the upholder of the kingdom,” is the guardian of the east. He carries a lute, just like the heavenly musicians or gandharvas over whom he presides. In conformity with the harmonious nature of his harmonybased instrument, this guardian king is compassionate, using music to inculcate Buddhism.