 |
Shizhongshan Grottoes Niche 9: King Xinuluo
|
| |
|
Shizhongshan Grottoes Niche 9: King Xinuluo
CHINA, Yunnan, Dali; Dali Kingdom (937–1253); Stone; H: 34 cm
Situated on the back wall of Niche 9, King Xinuluo (reigned 649-674) wears a lotus crown, sits in full lotus position, and holds an official baton with both hands hidden in the sleeves of his robe. King Xinuluo was the leader of the Menshe tribe in southwest China. He was responsible for the founding of a kingdom in 649 that would later be known as the Nanzhao Kingdom (752-902). Due to his role in bringing the six tribes of the Nanzhao region together, he was recognized as a founding leader of the kingdom and was venerated with carvings such as this one. |
