Bi’an Temple Pillar

CHINA, Henan, Luohe

The pillar was erected between 1004 and 1007 during the Northern Song dynasty (960–1127). It chronicles the history of the Tang dynasty (618–907) Bi’an Temple, which no longer exists. It was listed as a National Cultural Heritage Property in 2006.
The 12 m high pillar is made of stone and is divided into two parts. The lower part contains inscriptions while the upper part is engraved with Buddhist figures. The two-layer base of the lower part is decorated with the Eight Classes of Dharma Protectors on the bottom layer and the Four Heavenly Kings on the top. Miniature pillars are carved at the corners of the base. Above the base there is a 2.9 m high section recording the renovation of the temple in small seal script. At the top of this section there is a square platform, above which is the upper part of the pillar. The two-layer base of the upper part depicts images of kalavinka and lotuses. The body is octagonal and is 3.1 m high. On each side there is a carving of three Buddhas and 57 small Arhats. The pillar is surmounted by an octagonal pyramidal roof with prominent ridge decorations, followed by the spire in the form of jewels.