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Bodhisattva in Contemplation
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Bodhisattva in Contemplation
CHINA; Eastern Wei dynasty (534–550), dated 544; Commissioned by Rong Ailuo; Marble; H: 54.4 cm; Shodo Museum, Tokyo, Japan
The Bodhisattva is seated in the relaxation posture while in contemplation, with one finger touching the cheek. A pose that is easily identifiable. The elaborate crown has a number of ribbons hanging down to the shoulders. A prominent petal-shaped nimbus surrounds the Bodhisattva's head. A necklace and a stole that covers the shoulders and falls down the sides of the body decorate the upper body. The lower body is clothed in a dhoti with cascading folds.
The front of the base displays a mountain censer and two Dharma protecting lions in symmetrical postures. The inscription on the back dates the statue to 544 and names the wife and daughter of Rong Ailuo as the donors of the statue. |
