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Zamu Temple: Seated Buddhas
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Zamu Temple: Seated Buddhas
CHINA, Gansu, Wuwei; Western Xia period (1032–1227); Stone; 150 x 170 cm
These nine Buddhas are discovered at the foundation of a pagoda at the site of Zamu Temple. The pagoda foundation is all that remains after the temple was destroyed and rebuilt numerous times. The posture of each Buddha figure is similar, with the right hand raised and the left hand in what looks like the varada (wish-granting) mudra. The figures are arranged in two rows and are seated in full lotus position. The lotus thrones are supported on a pair of horses that stand back to back. Traces of a flaming nimbus remain behind the heads of each Buddha. The fainted engravings on the mandorla show beasts and makaras. The artwork is reminiscent of the early Western Xia period (1032–1227). |
