Edo‑Period Wooden Niō Guardians (Agyō & Ungyō) — Paired Temple Protectors, Dynamic Carving, Late Edo–Meiji Transition

Catalogue Note: A compelling matched pair of Niō (Kongōrikishi), carved in wood and preserved with vivid muscular tension. Agyō, mouth open in the primal “A,” and Ungyō, mouth closed in the concluding “Un,” articulate the total arc of existence—beginning and end, expansion and restraint—guarding the threshold between the profane and the sacred.

The sculptural language favors animated force over courtly refinement, aligning with folk-temple carving traditions. The naturally aged surface—with softened edges and abrasions—reads as lived ritual life rather than later decorative manufacture.

Who are the Niō?

• Agyō: open mouth “A,” creation and outward force.
• Ungyō: closed mouth “Un,” completion and inward power.

Measurements

• Right figure: H 29.0 cm × W 16.0 cm × D 11.5 cm
• Left figure: H 28.8 cm × W 16.5 cm × D 11.9 cm

Condition

Age-related wear throughout, including abrasions, softened edges, and small losses consistent with devotional and architectural use. Please review photographs for precise surface condition.

HS Code

4420.10 — Statuettes and other ornaments, of wood. Antique classification (Chapter 97) only with independent documentation and broker guidance.

Authenticity & Stewardship

Evaluated under the Japonista Authentication Framework™:

• Material, carving, and surface-study comparison
• Iconographic and stylistic verification
• Condition and stability review (surface integrity)
• Construction assessment and handling-risk evaluation

Guaranteed 100% Authentic. Covered by the Japonista Lifetime Authenticity Warranty™.

A Note on Stewardship and Collecting

At Japonista, we approach Buddhist statues, sacred images, and ritual objects not merely as collectibles, but as cultural and spiritual artifacts deserving of respect, understanding, and careful presentation. Every piece we offer is thoughtfully examined, researched, and curated with sensitivity to its origin, meaning, and historical role.

Our role is not only to offer access to rare and meaningful objects, but to serve as responsible custodians—connecting the right works with collectors who value depth, intention, and authenticity.

Inquiries, Availability, and Private Consideration

Some of the cultural and heritage works may allow room for discussion, while others are held firmly due to rarity, condition, or cultural importance. All inquiries are reviewed personally and discreetly, and we welcome thoughtful questions or expressions of interest.

If you are exploring a particular theme, deity, lineage, or period—or seeking guidance in building a focused collection—our concierge team is always available to assist with quiet expertise and care.

Concierge Support & Collector Guidance

Japonista Concierge™ provides personalized assistance for collectors seeking deeper understanding, thoughtful acquisition, or long-term curation strategies. Whether your interest is devotional, scholarly, or aesthetic, we are here to help guide your journey with clarity and respect.

For select high-value or historically significant works, private reservation or structured payment arrangements may be available on a case-by-case basis. Please reach out to discuss eligibility and discreet options.

Before Proceeding

We kindly encourage collectors to review our shop policies and house guidelines, available through the links in our website footer, which outline shipping, handling, and conditions specific to vintage, sacred, and collectible works.

A Closing Note

Thank you for exploring Japonista’s collection of Oriental Cultural Heritage and arts. We are honored to share these meaningful works and to help place them where they may continue to be appreciated, studied, and respected.

If you have questions or wish to explore related works, please feel free to contact Japonista Concierge™ at any time.