Faces of Eternity
Chinese Buddhist Sculpture

MARCH 5 - APRIL 11, 2009

Throckmorton Fine Art is pleased to present FACES OF ETERNITY, an exhibition of Chinese Buddhist sculpture. The works on display date from the Northern Wei Dynasty (386-534 CE) through the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE), with ample representation of the Northern Qi Dynasty (550-577 CE). Early Chinese sculpture of the Buddha is increasingly appreciated for its intrinsic beauty, and there is likewise a growing recognition of it being a crucial part of Chinese aesthetic achievement.

While following prototypes from the homeland of Buddhism in northern India, Chinese artists gave the Buddha a new look of robust power and contemplative strength. The sculptures presented in the exhibit have a decided Chinese aura, especially visible in facial expressions of control and meditative calm.

Fine carvings of the Buddha are time-honored symbols of peace. They are
reassuring. The early Chinese sculptures exhibited here all convey wisdom and serenity. The sculptures are also important markers of Chinese civilization, of both its ability to learn from other cultural centers—such as India—and to imbue what has been borrowed with distinct Chinese attributes.

This exhibit builds on an earlier exhibit and catalogue at Throckmorton Fine Art titled “Early Chinese Buddhist Sculpture”.

An illustrated catalogue will be available for $45.00