The Emperor Paying Homage to Buddha

The carved mural in the Longmen Binyang Cave unveils an emperor of the Northern Wei Dynasty paying homage to Buddha. Interestingly, it showcases a unique style with no discernible Indian or Central Asian influence. However, the dynamic character portrayals and flowing garments bear resemblance to the Illustration of Goddess of the River Luo. The Binyang Cave, constructed between 500-523 AD, was commissioned by Emperor Xuanwu to honor his father, Emperor Xiaowen.

The mural's depiction of Emperor Xiaowen reflects a distinct southern style, aligning with his efforts to promote the integration of northern and southern cultures. In contrast to painted murals, the tombs of Northern Wei rulers and officials embraced traditional Chinese stone carving techniques. Stone coffins, shrines, and "biers" were adorned with carved painted images. These tomb sculptures primarily emphasized Confucian moral principles, highlighting stories of filial sons and loyal ministers, while portraying virtuous wives and mothers to a lesser extent.

Northern Wei (386-535). Relief Sculpture. Binyang cave of the Longmen Grottoes, Luoyang, Henan Province. Collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, USA.

This piece is compiled from the Chinese edition of Three Thousand Years of Chinese Painting by Foreign Languages Press and Yale University Press, translated by Chen Ying.