This marble stele depicts the Buddha
flanked by two standing disciples. While the
central figure is sitting on a lotus pedestal
in a relaxed posture, his flanking disciples
are standing under two symmetrical bodhi
trees. The base shows a pair of auspicious
animals guarding a lotus flower, the symbol
for compassion, while two devotees are also
depicted under below the disciples.
This form of marble stele with carved-out
parts is a typical artistic wonder from the
Hebei Province during the Northern
Dynasties era. During this period, there
were heightened interactions between the
Northern Dynasties and its neighbouring
regions, such as the Southern Dynasties,
India, and Central Asian states, resulting in
an influx of a diverse range of Buddhist art
styles, greatly enriching the spectrum and
technical tool-box of artisans in Northern
China.
This stele is an extremely rare piece in the
market. It demonstrates exquisite
craftsmanship with elegantly executed
carved out technique. It is gutted that that
the more fragile and delicate top part is not
preserved.
