Category

Buddhism

Time Period

8th year of the Datong reign of the Western Wei Dynasty (542 CE)

Size

36.2 × 73.5 × 15.1 cm

Material

Limestone

The "Buddhist Triad Statue Stele" is a stone monument dating back to the Western Wei dynasty. The term "Buddhist Triad" refers to a representation of one Buddha and two attendant Bodhisattvas, a common form of sculpture during the Southern and Northern Wei Dynasties. The Buddha is depicted wearing draped robes and sitting in the lotus position (Padmasana). The left hand is in a gesture symbolizing the fulfillment of the wishes of beings, while the right hand is in a gesture of fearlessness, representing the bestowal of generosity and tranquility. The lions positioned beside the Bodhisattvas symbolize the Buddha's fearlessness and greatness. The back of the stele is also carved with reliefs divided into three layers: upper, middle, and lower. The upper layer depicts celestial beings offering flowers and performing dances to worship the Buddhas. The middle layer depicts the Buddha, Manjushri, and Vimalakirti. The lower layer depicts the patron (Yi Zi) and an inscription. The inscription narrates how Zhao Jing, a believer of the Buddha, and his family, offered this monument to bring peace and happiness to the emperor and all beings.

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