This is a limestone carved Amita Buddha of Northern Wei Period (386-534 AD). Northern Wei deeply came under the influence of the teachings of Laotsi and Zhongtsi, that prevailed in late Han dynasty. The faces of the figures look lean and plain but very spiritually inspired. The bodies in general were vividly executed. In the very fine carvings, great attention was especially paid in the treatment of the eyes that carry the gaze of spirituality. This stone sculpture is a rare piece done in the early Northern Wei. The abnormally lean and plain face is of special interest. The flowing and natural lines of the clothing reflect a few but expertly executed cuts. It has an air of calmness beyond what is worldly. Except for the missing palm, the sculpture is generally in good condition. The stone is solid and of good quality. This Buddha sculpture is a hard-to-find antique in the market. The Buddha figures carved in early Northern Wei look very lean and gradually look normal in the mid and late phases. By Sui dynasty (581-617 AD), they look plump and more so in Tang dynasty (618-907 AD). References may be made on the displays in Metropolitan Museum, New York and British Museum, London.

Natural wear

93 x 51 x 33 cm