Early Tang Dynasty, 618- A.D.
h.31in.(79cm.) X w.8 in.(20cm.) X d.6.5in.(16cm.)
Condition: arms losses
This
standing Buddha exhibits a youthful charm and proportion which has been documented
in a type of Korean and Japanese work of the same period. Unadorned simplicity
shapes the gentle features and the curving drapery that falls from one shoulder
in simple folds. Sixth century influences upon Chinese art from India, Cambodia
and other regions culminated during the T’ang Dynasty in a vigorous new international
style of unmitigated Chinese character, but early in the T’ang the archaic character
is still present. Despite the wear and damage to this piece, it retains its original
spirited smile and a demeanor of kindliness. Age has lightened the hue of the
schist with extensive pitting that gives an appearance of stippling. Lines on
the surface are the residue of vines and roots that had adhered to the statue.