Ming Stone Sculpture of a Chariot Rider, Horse and Attendents

Circa	1368 AD to 1644 AD
Dimensions	11″ (27.9cm) high x 20″ (50.8cm) wide
Medium	Stone
Origin	China

This stone sculpture depicts the arrival of an esteemed patron on chariot. Symbolically, it conveys the Buddhist belief in the attainment of nirvana arrived at through the vehicle of devout faith. Seated on an ornate chariot which signifies enthronement, the rider holds a lotus flower on his knee. This figure's delicately modelled face is surmounted by an elaborate crown with a rising center piece. Two smaller sized figures accompany the rider, displaying great movement and energy in their stylized gestures. The smaller attendant yanks the reins of the vigorous horse as the other figure waves his arm high, enhancing the movement of his body and clothing. Both men wear three-quarter robes and bear the Buddhist marking of wisdom– the ushnisa.