Since the Song dynasty (10th-13th century), with Chinese Buddhism becoming more accessible to the masses, many more Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva and arhat statues with lively expressions appeared. They remind us of the kind and wise teachers who always stand by us, smiling and nodding in encouragement.

During the Ming-Qing period (14th-20th century), with the additional popularity of wooden craftworks and the advancement of the handicraft industry, the treatment of details in wood sculptures became more refined. Many Buddhist statues were produced by private citizens. Compared to government-produced statues, they were less sophisticated in techniques, and were frequently decorated with color-painting and gold-foiling.

Through the wordless stories of the artist's creations, may we get a glimpse of the compassion and dedication behind the beauty of each Buddhist statue.