Qigxin: Fragment of a Heavenly Being

CHINA, Xinjiang, Bayingolin

This statue incorporates the standardized head obvious in many of the finds at the Qigxin site. The figure has been individualized by the hair, which is arranged in stylized locks combed over the forehead and falling behind the ears. Floral earrings are visible on the ears, something commonly seen on other finds. The upper body, which tapers to a narrow waist, is adorned with a beaded ornament that crosses at a medallion and then continues around to the back. The skirt below is worn low over the hips. Faded pigments are just visible on the statue. There is some rough molding behind the figure which continues below the broken arms and suggests an aureole or stole.