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Section of a Dharani Pillar, Tang dynasty (618-907). Creator: Unknown
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Section of a Dharani Pillar, Tang dynasty (618-907). Creator: Unknown
Section of a Dharani Pillar, Tang dynasty (618-907). This octagonal stone pillar, with Buddhist figures carved on its eight sides, is part of a dharani pillar commissioned by Buddhist believers to pay tribute to the dead. The eight inscriptions seen here are eulogies dedicated by eight families to their deceased family members. Dharanis were a form of spell in Esoteric Buddhism said to possess supernatural power when being recited or carried and were incorporated into sutras, such as the Buddha Usnisa Vijaya Dharani Sutra. Dharani pillars, also called sutra pillars, became the dominant bearers of Usnisa Vijaya Dharani which supposedly helped sentient beings prolong life and destroy hardships of the eternal cycle of life and the realms of hell
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Media ID 19641488
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
Limestone Tang Dynasty 618 907
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This print showcases a section of a Dharani Pillar from the Tang dynasty, dating back to 618-907. The octagonal stone pillar is adorned with intricate carvings of Buddhist figures on all eight sides. Originally commissioned by devoted Buddhists as a tribute to the deceased, this particular section features eight inscriptions that serve as eulogies dedicated by different families to their departed loved ones. Dharanis, which were considered powerful spells in Esoteric Buddhism, possessed supernatural abilities when recited or carried. These sacred incantations were often incorporated into sutras like the Buddha Usnisa Vijaya Dharani Sutra. The Dharani pillars, also known as sutra pillars, became prominent bearers of the Usnisa Vijaya Dharani - believed to aid sentient beings in prolonging life and overcoming the hardships associated with the eternal cycle of existence and realms of hell. Crafted from limestone during China's illustrious Tang dynasty, this remarkable sculpture now resides at The Cleveland Museum of Art. Despite its mysterious origins and unknown creator, it stands as an extraordinary testament to both artistic mastery and religious devotion during one of China's most influential periods. Heritage Art/Heritage Images has beautifully captured this mesmerizing piece through their lens for art enthusiasts worldwide to appreciate and admire its historical significance.
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