Artwork Page for Gozu Tennō (Ox-Headed Plague Deity)

Details / Information for Gozu Tennō (Ox-Headed Plague Deity)

Gozu Tennō (Ox-Headed Plague Deity)

牛頭天王尊像

1100s

Japan, Heian period

(794–1185)
Medium
Wood with traces of color
Measurements
22.5 x 18 x 9.6 cm (8 7/8 x 7 1/16 x 3 3/4 in.)
Credit Line
Lillian M. Kern Memorial Fund 2025.10
Public Domain
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Location
235A Japanese
Print
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Did You Know?

The Gion Festival in Kyoto is related to belief in Gozu Tennō.

Description

Gozu Tennō is a deity who is capable of both bringing epidemics and dispelling them. His name is literally “Ox-Headed Celestial King.” He usually has three heads with an ox-head rising above his primary face. He sometimes holds a lasso and sword or an ax, but here holds his hands in a powerful gesture that may be designed to repel illness or promote healing.

Gozu Tennō (Ox-Headed Plague Deity)

1100s

Japan, Heian period (794–1185)

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