Japanese ceramic statuette of Asura, ASHURA, 29 cm

The Japanese ashura are said to be warriors who died in combat who would have become the guardians of the law of Buddha. They draw their origins from Hindu mythology. The ashura are not evil despite their bellicose side. The famous ashura statue at Kofuku-ji temple in Nara depicts an ashura with multiple faces and arms, clasping two of his hands with a serene air.