Standing Bodhisattva

CHINA; Song dynasty

The Bodhisattva stands in a dramatic posture with the head turned to one side and looking downward while the right hand is raised above shoulder height and directed across the body. This gesture shifts the weight onto the left leg. The left arm is held back from the body and the hanging hand steadies the stole that has been sent flying by the abrupt movement. Stillness combines with fluidity in this graceful composition. The figure’s long hair is gathered into a topknot and the face is concentrated on the action. The Bodhisattva wears an abbreviated tunic and a long skirt that reaches to the bare feet. The detail of the folds is realistically captured by this wooden masterpiece from early Song dynasty (960–1279).