Limestone Bust of Buddha

Northern Qi period, 550 - 577 

The spirituality of Buddha is vividly evoked in this limestone bust by the beautifully carved, well-proportioned face and the expression of deep meditation. A number of the iconographic features associated with Buddha are present, such as long earlobes, the ushnisha or bump on top of his head symbolizing wisdom, hair arranged in curls, smooth skin and gently curved shoulders. The beautiful and well-proportioned exterior figure was intended to reflect a corresponding inner spiritual attainment.