Chinese Buddhist sculpture

[2] The practice started in rock-cut cave temples where carvings, mostly in relief, of images enveloped chambers and complexes illustrating the beliefs associated to the Buddha's teachings.

Creating these temples and sculptures not only garnered merit aligned to their own personal growth, but gave devotees a reference for worship and meditative inspiration.

While inspired by Indian renderings, various sittings positions, facial expressions and clothing types culminated a visual mix.

Sculptures with slim bodies and thicker garments embodied Chinese traditions as opposed to Indian variations depicting larger physiques & sheer clothing.

During the 4th and 6th century, China was experiencing a time of war in which followers believed their devotional piety would offer guidance, health and wealth to their provinces and rulers.

Buddha, probably Amitabha (Ēmítuófó), 7th century, Tang dynasty , The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Buddha Dipankara (Rándēng Fó), The Metropolitan Museum of Art
A Chinese wooden sculpture depicting Guanyin , Song dynasty , 12th century AD, Ethnological Museum of Berlin , Germany