Standing Statues of Bodhisattva in Lower Huayan Temple

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This is the most moving statue among Standing Statues of Bodhisattva in Lower Huayan Temple, Datong. It carries forward the excellent tradition of clay sculpture of the Tang Dynasty, but also reflects Khitan ethnic features. It represents the highest level of sculpture art of the Liao Dynasty. This artwork is conveyed promptly in terms of action, facial expression and pattern. It is realistic, smooth and vivid. Statue of Bodhisattva is made with colorful painting, fresh tints and various postures. In S-shaped posture, the statue inclines leftwards to give feminine posture. Calm and mild face takes implicit facial expression. This statue looks dignified, classic and tranquil.

Head

Bodhisattva wears a brilliant crown, with plump cheek, clearcut facial features, upright bridge of nose and auspicious naevus between n the eyebrows. She has maturity, kindness and decence of the motherhood. Slender eyes look at pious people and Bodhisattva seems to bless for all believers and chant sutras.

Colored Sculptures of Lower Huayan Temple

In Lower Huayan Temple, 29 statues of Dipamkara are kept in Bhagavad Scripture Hall up to now. From north to south, they are Dipamkara, Buddha Shakyamuni and Maitreya. Every Buddha is accompanied with several assistant Bodhisattvas and disciples. These statues are well proportioned with smooth clothes. Some are sitting, standing and squatting, with different postures and facial expressions. They are all masterpieces.

Names of the components of statues of Buddha and statues of Bodhisattva

In the religious rites, images, clothes and pedestals of Buddha and Bodhisattva have special appellations which are different from those of the secular word. Getting a rough idea of this aspect can be helpful for better appreciating the Buddhism sculpture art.

Huayan Temple

Huayan Temple is located at the southwest part of old city of Datong. It used to be imperial temple in the Liao Dynasty. Upper Huayan Temple and Lower Huayan Temple were divided in the Ming Dynasty. Upper Huayan Temple had the core of the hall rebuilt in the Jin Dynasty, and the original Bhagavad Scripture Hall (Liao Dynasty) is the core of Lower Huayan Temple. Bhagavad Scripture Hall is built in the 7th year of Chongxi Period of the Liao Dynasty (1038), which looks grand and magnificent with typical feature of the Liao Dynasty.