The Japanese branch of Chinese modeling studio "Mana Workshop," "Sum-Art (Mojiang)," recently announced the third installment in their "Takayuki Takeya Art Collection" series, a collaboration with Japanese genius sculptor Takayuki Takeya: the "Sanada Ashura Hanbaten Original ver." painted complete figure! Limited to 99 units (40 for Japan) and made-to-order, the suggested retail price is 88,000 JPY (tax included).
The initial concept for this work can likely be traced back to Kaiyodo's TAKEYA-style Jizai Okimono series in 2015, specifically the "Hanbaten (Ashura)." At that time, Takayuki Takeya proposed the innovative concept of merging the mythical beast Qilin with a Buddhist deity (Ashura), giving birth to the half-human, half-beast Hanbaten. This new Sanada Ashura Hanbaten continues the Ashura's three heads and six arms, while incorporating elements such as Sengoku period warlord helmets (kabuto), armor, and weapons into its design, exuding an invincible and awe-inspiring presence.
Given the Japanese Sengoku warlord aesthetic integrated into this piece, I personally believe that the "Sanada" in Sanada Ashura Hanbaten is related to the renowned Sanada Yukimura and the Sanada family. This is because the Sanada clan's "Rokumon Sen" (six mon coin) family crest also represents the Six Realms, and one of the three good realms within the Six Realms is Ashura. Furthermore, the Rokumon Sen emblem can be seen on the helmet of the central head of the Sanada Ashura Hanbaten.
This piece stands at an impressive 42 cm tall. The Sanada Ashura Hanbaten body is made of resin, the weapons are metal, and the base is crafted from wood. It masterfully blends elements of Eastern deities and Sengoku warlords, and with its rearing horse body, it exudes power from every angle. The intricate detailing of the armor and the slender, skeletal physique fully showcase Takayuki Takeya's sculptural vision. The ubiquitous verdigris treatment on the surface significantly enhances the realism of this finished product, and combined with the weapon-wielding arms, it is truly outstanding!
▼ The product content will also include Takayuki Takeya's autograph.
Takayuki Takeya Art Collection Vol. 3 "Sanada Ashura Hanbaten" Painted Complete Figure Original ver.
Suggested Retail Price: ¥88,000 (tax included)
Product Specifications: Approximately 42 cm tall
Limited Quantity: 99 units (40 for Japan), made-to-order
Estimated Release Date: February 2025
Source: sum-art