The Kim Cuong Guardian Statues, a national treasure, are housed at Doi Son Pagoda in Tien Son Commune, Duy Tien Town, Ha Nam Province. These statues, each carved from a single block of stone weighing approximately two tons, are among the most significant Buddhist relics from the Ly Dynasty.

Doi Son Pagoda, also known by its ancient name Dien Linh Tu, was built during the Ly Dynasty. Located atop Doi Mountain, the pagoda is home to numerous valuable historical artifacts, the most remarkable being the Kim Cuong Guardian Statues.

The sacred protectors of Buddhism

The term Kim Cuong, or Vajra Guardian, refers to Kim Cuong Thu, a Bodhisattva who protects the Buddha.

According to the Prajnaparamita Sutra and the Dao Hanh Prajnaparamita Sutra, anyone who attains Bodhisattva status through meditation on the path to Buddhahood will be safeguarded by the Kim Cuong Guardians, ensuring they are shielded from harm, whether from humans or supernatural forces.

The Kim Cuong Guardian Statue set at Doi Son Pagoda consists of six standing figures, each sculpted life-size from solid gray sandstone. Each statue weighs approximately two tons and exudes an aura of strength and authority.

A masterpiece of Buddhist sculpture

According to Do Van Hien, Director of Ha Nam Provincial Museum, despite the effects of war and natural degradation, the statues have remained relatively well-preserved over the centuries.

The statues depict martial figures with a resolute and dignified demeanor, their faces calm yet powerful. Each guardian holds a sword positioned vertically in front of the abdomen, while the armor is adorned with multi-petaled floral motifs, creating the illusion of rhythmic movement as if the statues themselves are breathing.

Each figure is carved in bas-relief style on a rectangular stone block, with straight vertical sides, a flat bottom edge, and an angled top edge cut at a 45-degree angle.

Recognized as a unique, original artifact, the Kim Cuong Guardian Statue set is one of the most outstanding and complete Buddhist sculptures from the Ly Dynasty that still exist today.

These statues serve as a bridge between history, culture, and aesthetics, offering invaluable insight into Vietnamese Buddhist art and spiritual beliefs during the Ly era.