Bodhisattva; China, Eastern Wei Dynasty, 534-550 or Northern Qí, 550-577.

Bodhisattva; China, Eastern Wei Dynasty, 534-550 or Northern Qí, 550-577.
Limestone with remains of polychrome and gilding.
Work exhibited at Feriarte 2008.
Attached Test MEB-EDAX.
Measurements: 108 x 30 x 26 cm.
Sculpture made of limestone with remains of polychrome and gilding, mostly visible in the face, hands, torso and feet, although there are also ornamental details where you can see traces of gilding. The round sculpture has a polished finish on the front and back, indicating the technical quality of the sculptor and the piece. This sits on lotus flower petals, as usual. Upright and majestic, the figure rises with a serene face visible through closed eyelids and a slight smile, mudras characteristic of these pieces, as well as the position of the hands.
The term bodhisattva designates a being who, by the systematic exercise of the perfect virtues, attains Buddhahood, but renounces to enter the complete Nirvana in order to help and guide all beings, until all of them are liberated. His determining quality is compassion, supported by wisdom and supreme knowledge. A bodhisattva gives active help and is ready to take upon himself the suffering of all beings and to transfer his karmic merit to others; logically, they are the object of veneration by the believers, who feel them closer and see in them guides and help in their needs.