Temple Guard

Dwarapalakas, or door guardians, traditionally appear in pairs in Hindu architecture, outside the temple door or/and the sanctum, as gatekeepers or guardians of the deity. The guardians are fearsome warriors or giants, often seen holding a mace or a spear.

In ancient times, door guardians were carved in both male and female forms. The Dwarapalakas (male forms), were meant to guard Shiva or Vishnu temples and the Dwarapalikas (female forms) guarded Durga temples or temples of other female deities.

Made of wood, this dwarapalaka is most likely from Southern Karnataka.