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Pair of Standing Bodhisattvas
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Pair of Standing Bodhisattvas
CHINA; Sui dynasty (581–618), dated 586; Gilt bronze; H: 34.8 cm; National Palace Museum, Taipei, Taiwan
Both Bodhisattvas hold their hands in the stylized version of the abhaya (fearlessness) and varada (wish-granting) mudras in which one open palm points straight up and the other straight down. They stand on plain pedestals supported by a four-legged stand. Elegant stoles cross their bodies to the skirt below and loop back behind.
The petal-shaped mandorla that unites the two figures has an elongated tip with its free spaces incised in flames. The aureoles are formed of vertical incisions, while the circular nimbuses are made of a simple lotus pattern behind the head, encircled with radiating rings. Inscriptions found on the stand state that the statue was dedicated in 586 on behalf of the donor's parents. |
