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35. A dated stone Buddhist stele China Tang Dynasty 667 AD Height: 6 ¾” (17.5 cm) |
The arch-shaped stele depicts the Buddha seated on a lotus which rises on a stem from a base flanked by two watchful guardian lions - a lotus-borne attendant figure to either side of the Buddha, each clasping a tablet to his breast. The haloed Buddha with typical Tang full features and robes holds a book at his lap which rests on pedestal between his hands. The whole on a platform inscribed with two lines of Chinese characters which give the date of dedication as "18th day of the sixth month of the second year of the reign of the Great Tang Emperor Chien Feng (666-668). A further tribute inscription (fragmentary) to the right hand side of the base. Extensive traces of lacquer. Detail: side view |