Standing Buddha

CHINA; Northern Wei dynasty

This work from late 5th century is one of the largest Chinese sculptures kept in Japan and probably originates from Dongchan Temple in Zhuozhou, Hebei. The style of the figure is primitive and simple. The monastic robe covers both shoulders and clings about the legs but also fans out below the arms and the thighs. A lotus is at the center of the nimbus, around which are successive, radiations decorated with seated Buddhas, apsaras scattering flowers, lions, donors, and heavenly musicians as well as dancers. The reverse is as ornate and is inscribed with the names of dozens of donors of the Huan clan. The work is listed as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.