The Iron Bodhisattva statues of Shanxi
Shanxi, situated in the core of China, has a long-standing relationship with Buddhism that has been established over many years.
One of its most remarkable and spiritually meaningful contributions to Buddhist art and culture are the Iron Bodhisattvas.
These statues, some of which are more than a thousand years old, are not only remarkable examples of religious craftsmanship but also carry a great deal of symbolism within the Chinese Mahayana Buddhist tradition.
The Iron Bodhisattva is a symbol of spiritual power that has been revered since the Han Dynasty (202 BCE–9 CE; 25–220 CE).
It is placed at the center of an altar as a focal point for prayer and devotion in Chinese Buddhism, and it is believed that its presence can bring prosperity and good fortune according to the principles of feng shui.
Crafting an Iron Bodhisattva requires a deep understanding of Buddhist philosophy and the ability to form molds.
After the iron castings cooled, they were often gilded with gold or bronze to reflect their sacredness.
Unfortunately, during times of turmoil, such as Emperor Wu’s (r. 561–78) reign, these statues were desecrated and stripped of their gold, robbing them of their religious significance.
