Marble Sculpture of a Seated Sage, 960 CE - 1279 CE
Marble
15 x 26.25
H.042
                                    
                                   Shown seated on a throne, this figure clasps his hands beneath the long folds of a flowing robe, seemingly holding an emblem or offering. The tips of his shoes appear...
                        
                    
                                                    Shown seated on a throne, this figure clasps his hands beneath the long folds of a flowing robe, seemingly holding an emblem or offering.  The tips of his shoes appear beneath the hems of layered clothing which is accompanied by a hanging sash and square chest plate.  The figure is portrayed with a strong jawbone, broad facial features, pendulant earlobes, and complacent expression.  His thick combed hair is neatly tucked under a triangular shaped crown adorned with a gem studded band and an image of a meditating Buddha on a lotus throne.  Though it is unclear whether this figure represents a Taoist deity, Confucian dignitary, or Buddhist figure, it is probable that he possesses admirable virtues or extraordinary ability that make him a worthy subject for stone work.  Since  stone was associated with the cult of immortality, only the heroic and sagacious were chosen for this medium.
                    
                    
                 
                                         
                                         
                                        