Tang and Five Dynasties Sculptures

Early Tang sculptures retained characteristics from the Northern and Southern Dynasties to the Sui Dynasty. During the reigns of Emperor Gaozong and Empress Wu Zetian, the Tang Dynasty sculpture style was formally established, marked by the colossal Lushena Buddha statue in Fengxian Temple at the Longmen Grottoes, elevating sculptural art to new heights. During the Kaiyuan and Tianbao eras, High Tang sculptures achieved a lifelike portrayal of opulent figures, representing the pinnacle of Chinese sculpture. In the Mid- and Late Tang Dynasty, sculptures gradually became more voluminous, emphasizing ornate detail over graceful vitality. Five Dynasties sculptures inherited the plump, blocky features of the Late Tang, but with simpler carving. The political fragmentation of this period fostered the development of regional styles.