Fragment of a Northern Qi Marble Votive Stele of a Bodhisattva with Disciples

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. – (HK.2858)