The large size, the lustrous and smooth qualities of the stone, and the exquisite artistry make this color painted and gold leafed carving a quintessential example of ancient white marble statues. Under a double-canopied tree, the buddha sits at the center flanked by two attendant bodhisattvas. Their delicately carved faces express loving-kindness. Below the figures are two lively dragons with lotus flowers in their mouths, adding dramatic flair to the scene. The canopy with six layers of bodhi tree leaves carved in openwork symbolizes the six paramitas (charity, moral conduct, tolerance, diligence, meditation and prajna wisdom) practiced by the Mahayana bodhisattvas. The 108 bodhi leaves in these layers represent the uncovering of our inherent bodhi nature once we have eradicated the 108 afflictions in our minds. At the back of the double-canopied bodhi tree are two arhats, a design symbolizing the union of the two divisions of Buddhism: the Mahayana and the Theravada. With its cohesive composition, ingenious design, and perfect integration of imagery and teaching, this exquisite piece represents the pinnacle of white marble sculpture in sixth century China.