N.E.S.W — The Four Guardians of the Street

A modern tribute to ancient legend, N.E.S.W is a four-piece sculpture series by acclaimed Chinese artist Huang Yulong, fusing traditional Eastern mythology with the raw energy of contemporary street culture.

Inspired by the Four Heavenly Kings from Buddhist cosmology—protectors of the cardinal directions North, East, South, and West—this set reinterprets these divine figures as anonymous sentinels clad in streetwear. With their faceless visages and layered urban outfits, they embody quiet strength, spiritual guardianship, and the defiance of today’s underground culture.

Yulong’s vision stems from a unique intersection: he is classically trained in fine arts and ceramic sculpture, yet also a former hip-hop dancer deeply immersed in street life. This duality fuels his art. In N.E.S.W, the sculptural precision of porcelain craftsmanship meets the grit of graffiti alleys, baggy silhouettes, and protective stances.

Each figure stands as a metaphorical guardian — of identity, creative freedom, and cultural authenticity in a chaotic world. Whether displayed individually or together, N.E.S.W invites viewers to reflect on resistance, direction, and presence in modern life.

Product Details

• Material: Resin

• Dimensions:
  • Height: 15.7 in (400 mm)
  • Width: 28.3 in (720 mm)
  • Length: 6.3 in (160 mm)

• Weight:
  • B: 6.6 lbs (3.0 kg)
  • W: 6.0 lbs (2.7 kg)
  • R: 6.6 lbs (3.0 kg)
  • Y: 6.4 lbs (2.9 kg)

• Edition Size: 999

Why Collect N.E.S.W?

A rare crossover of ancient myth and modern rebellion
Created by one of the most iconic street-influenced sculptors
Striking presence for collectors of art toys, urban sculpture, and contemporary East Asian design
Limited edition — highly collectible

Bring the guardians home — and let them stand watch in your space, with power, poise, and purpose.