Xiaoxitian Temple Great Hero Hall: Ten Great Disciples

CHINA, Shanxi, Linfen; Ming dynasty

The statues are evenly divided along the bottom half of the Great Hero Hall’s north and south walls. The disciples are measured around 195 cm of height while the attendants are around 104 cm. The figure at the head of those on the north wall is Mahakasyapa, while Ananda heads the disciples on the south wall. Most figures stand on a lotus pedestal with their young attendants exiting or entering through doors behind. Children are often seen accompanying Arhats in such groups, either bringing food or tea. Figures opening doors became a characteristic that was made popular after the Yuan (1271–1368) and Ming (1368–1644) dynasties, and is often seen in Buddhist artwork after the Ming dynasty.