POTD: Meant to Impress

Meant to Impress
Nanjing, China
2018

This statue, called Reclining Buddha, or Sleeping Buddha, is probably 30-40 feet long and 10-15 feet tall. It was surround by a circular moat filled with fog. The walls behind it are filled with niches containing additional Buddha statues.

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POTD: Camouflage Commerce

Camouflage Commerce
Nanjing, China
2018

Just inside the entrance to the modern temple I was visiting, at first I thought this was just and interesting abstract sculptural piece. Then I noticed the heads behind what turned out to be the admissions desk. (Yes, they do charge admission at many of the temples in China–they are as much tourist attractions as they are places of worship. I believe I got into this one for free though cuz I’m an old fart.)

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POTD: Art Walk

Art Walk
Nanjing, China
2018

The expansive portico on this Buddhist temple was lined with one relief sculptured mural after another. My Chinese artist friend who I stayed with in Nanjing was asked to design one of the temple murals. Even though he would have been well paid he declined the offer because they made the decision not allow the artists to sign their work.

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POTD: The New Way

The New Way
Nanjing, China
2018

Turning around from the view shown in yesterday’s POTD you see this–part of a new Buddhist temple. It was a very interesting mix of old design motifs in new architectural form.

 

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