Tympanum

This semicircular tympanum, now set in a restored frame, was originally installed above the doorway of a pagoda, a multi-floored structure adapted from Indian reliquary mounds associated with the Buddha. At its top center, the historical Buddha, Shakyamuni, sits with both hands in a gesture symbolizing “Turning of the Wheel of the Law.” He is flanked by pairs of bodhisattvas, asparas and guardian lions. Two groups of donor images are carved on either side of the lion pair and the identity of each person is in a cartouche. On the right is a Buddhist nun leading four disciples. During the Tang dynasty, nuns actively served the church and community. According to the title of the chief nun, she was likely the spiritual guide of lay donors on the left.