C. AD 618-907. Tang Dynasty. An elaborate stone panel depicting a standing Buddha. A dark-coloured, oval-shaped stone stele in high relief depicting a standing buddha. The central Buddha figure is depicted in a highly stylised manner. He is wearing a traditional gown, while standing on a lotus. His head is turned to the side. Buddhism entered China as early as the Han Dynasty (late 3rd century BC-early 3rd century AD), and has played an important part in shaping the country’s art, politics, literature and philosophy. This exceptional piece embodies the importance of Buddha to Chinese culture and reflects the enormous amount of work invested by Tang craftsmen. Provenance: Private London collection of Asian Art; formerly in an old British collection. Acquired in Hong Kong in the early 1990s. Size: L:380mm / W:160mm ; 6kg