Arhat-Statuen im Baosheng-Tempel, Buddhist statues in Luzhi Town, Suzhou, China.
The arhat statues in Baosheng Temple are nine surviving clay figures from the Tang Dynasty arranged along the back walls of the temple museum. Each sits within a carved niche surrounded by painted mountains, clouds, and landscapes that resemble a natural mountainous world.
Baosheng Temple was founded in 503 during the Liang Dynasty and reached its most flourishing period under the Tang Dynasty. The arhat statues were created during that era by master sculptor Yang Huizhi and continue to define the temple's character today.
The remaining arhat statues showcase the craftsmanship of Buddhist sculptors through their expressive faces and natural body forms. They stand today in their mountain niches like a silent gathering of sacred figures.
The statues are located in the back section of the temple museum and are easily accessible through the museum grounds. It is worthwhile to allow sufficient time for close observation of the niche details and painted landscapes, as the fine carving work becomes more impressive when viewed up close.
The figures were crafted by master Yang Huizhi in varying heights, which gives them a lively, non-uniform appearance. These size variations allowed the artist to depict different characters and positions within the sacred community.
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