Transplanted from India, Buddhism in China took root during the 3rd to 6th century. It continued to grow in the fertile soil of the Sui-Tang golden age (6th-9th century), blossoming into eight major schools. Their influence on the development of Chinese Buddhism and Buddhist art had continued into the following dynasties.

In the multicultural, liberal yet orderly atmosphere of the Tang period, artists created Buddhist statues marked by their plump, carefree features, and an underlying symmetrical pattern. In this gallery, you may explore the graceful, dignified expression and precise technique that are characteristic of Tang wood statues.

Following the Tang dynasty, for the next 300 years and more, the Confucian literati’s revival dream—to better the world through the pursuit of learning; to relive the former glory of their empire prior to the fallen northern land—informed the art and cultural scene of Song dynasty (10th-13th century). Song Buddhist statues evolved into a delicate, introspective style rich in layers. They began to depart from the Tang and earlier styles. Elegant bodhisattvas with an appearance of transcending worldly concerns were born to greet the world.

Tang and Song—spreading outward and focusing inward; these two contrasting styles together conveys one theme—the essence of Buddhist cultivation is the perfection of inward discipline and outward compassion.