A Quick Look at Niō Sculptures: Gate Guardians at Tokyo National Museum

*There are subtitles on this Youtube video.
In Japanese, these two gate guardians are called Niō (“humane kings”) or, more officially, Kongōrikishi (“vajra warriors”). Niō are placed on either side of temple gates and act as guardian deities, protecting the temple grounds from evil spirits and evil doers.

In this video, TNM curator Asami Ryūsuke gives viewers an inside look at a pair of Niō statues that the Museum recently acquired on the occasion of its 150th anniversary. Watch to learn more about the highlights of the Museum’s newest stars and discover how they were given a second life.

The gate guardians will make their public debut at the 150th Anniversary Special Exhibition Tokyo National Museum: Its History and National Treasures held from October 18 to December 18, 2022. Visit in person to experience their awe-inspiring power close up.

*This video is also available in 4K.


＜Index＞
00:00　Outline
00:40　Niō: Introductory Course
03:10　What are Niō ?
03:50　Niō: Intermediate Course
04:58　Niō: Advanced Course
06:44　A Second Life of The Niō
08:15　Message to Viewers

＜Exhibition (timed ticket) ＞
150th Anniversary Special Exhibition
Tokyo National Museum: Its History and National Treasures

Heiseikan Special Exhibition Galleries
October 18, 2022 (Tue) - December 18, 2022 (Sun)

Visitors must purchase a timed-entry reservation (timed ticket) online prior to their visit.
See the exhibition website (https://tohaku150th.jp/) for details.

https://tohaku150th.jp/ , [Japanese Only]
https://www.tnm.jp/150th/project/2022...
https://www.tnm.jp/modules/r_free_pag...


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Creative Produce / Codex
Directed by Matsumura Ryōichi
Shot by Takahashi Hidenori
Biwa lute by Kumada Kahori
Illustration by Nord Yuki
Commentary by Asami Ryūsuke
Hand writing by Tomita Jun


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▼Tokyo National Museum 150th Anniversary Special Website
https://www.tnm.jp/150th/en/

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