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Shijiazhuang: Bodhisattva in Contemplation
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Shijiazhuang: Bodhisattva in Contemplation
CHINA, Hebei, Shijiazhuang; Northern Qi dynasty (550–577), dated 551; Commissioned by Zhiyuan; Marble; H: 41 cm; Zhengding County Administration Office of Cultural Heritage, Hebei, China
The sculpture was discovered at Shijiazhuang. It depicts a Bodhisattva sitting in the contemplative position and accompanied by two disciples. The Bodhisattva has the left leg overhanging the throne and the right crossed on the upper leg. A fluttering stole overflows down either side. The two much smaller disciples have palms joined in reverence. All three figures have circular nimbuses framing their heads. Lotus flowers are incised on the front and sides of the base. An inscription on the back dates the sculpture to 551, and states it was commissioned by the monk Zhiyuan to pray for all beings to attain Buddhahood. |
