Sui Dynasty, Late 6th – Early 7th Century

BUDDHA'S HEAD - CHINA,

China, Sui Dynasty (581–618)

Carved marble.

Height: 9 cm; width: 5 cm.

Burial patina and restorations.

A rare marble Buddha head dating from the Sui Dynasty, a brief but pivotal period in Chinese history that marked the transition from the Northern Wei to the artistic heyday of the Tang Dynasty.

This sculpture features a face of great serenity, with harmonious and delicately modeled features. The half-closed almond-shaped eyes, straight nose, slightly smiling mouth, and long ears—symbols of wisdom and renunciation of material possessions—lend the work a profound spiritual dimension.

The simple hairstyle, composed of small stylized curls and topped with a discreet ushnisha, fits perfectly within the aesthetic vocabulary of Buddhist art from northern China in the late 6th century.

Despite its modest dimensions, this work exudes a remarkable presence and stands as a particularly refined example of Chinese Buddhist art from this pivotal period.

The stone retains a beautiful patina from its time buried underground, as well as some restorations consistent with its age and conservation history.

A rare and elegant piece, combining archaeological, spiritual, and decorative qualities.

FCP Coridon Appraisal