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Maijishan Niche 54: Bodhisattva
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Maijishan Niche 54: Bodhisattva
CHINA, Gansu, Tianshui; Western Wei to Northern Zhou dynasty (535–581); Clay; H: 1.1 m
This statue stands to the right of a seated Buddha on the back wall of this shallow, arched niche. A similar Bodhisattva and two disciples once flanked the Buddha, but are now missing.
The statue dates to the Western Wei dynasty (535–556), but the head was restored in the Northern Zhou dynasty (557–581). The headdress is portrayed with lotuses, wish-fulfilling jewels, and honeysuckle leaves carved in clear and nimble manner. Although the statue is made of clay, the elaborate headdress has the appearance of stone. The Bodhisattva has a long face with an air of serenity. |
