Tibeto-Chinese

Tibeto-Chinese sculpture refers to Buddhist art produced at the intersection of Tibetan and Chinese traditions, particularly during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties when Tibet and China maintained close political and religious ties. These works blend Tibetan Buddhist iconography with Chinese casting techniques and aesthetic sensibilities, creating a distinctive hybrid style.

Common subjects include seated Buddhas, bodhisattvas, and wrathful deities rendered in gilt bronze with fine detail. The Qing Emperor Qianlong (r. 1735-1796) was a major patron of Tibeto-Chinese Buddhist art, commissioning works for temples in Beijing and beyond. Our collection includes 5 works at the Art Institute of Chicago.