Large carved stone statue of ‘Shakyamuni’, Tang Dynasty

A carved limestone statue depicting Shakyamuni in the meditation posture (dhyanasana). It shows a robustly proportioned body, with broad shoulders and a full chest. The face bears an expression of profound serenity, with eyes half-closed beneath arched eyebrows, full lips and elongated earlobes. The hair is tied back, revealing tight curls (usnisha), and features a third eye symbolising his enlightened wisdom. The robes fall fluidly over the body, forming folds of great naturalism. The stone shows signs of erosion and patina due to its age. Tang Dynasty (618–907).

Size: 95 x 47 x 68 cm

References:

· Bonhams. A fine and rare marble torso of Maitreya, Tang dynasty. Lot 21, 22 June 2021

· Shanghai Museum. Seated Buddha statue. Museum of Ancient Chinese Sculpture.

· Sotheby's. A large stone standing figure of bodhisattva, Tang dynasty. Lot 328, May 5, 2026