Figure of Bodhidharma Crossing Yangtze River on Reed
Unknown Artist
Medium
Porcelain decorated with enamels on the biscuit
Dimensions
H. 8 1/8 in. (20.6 cm); W. 3 7/8 in. (9.8 cm); D. 2 3/4 in. (7 cm)
Classification
Ceramics
Culture & Period
China · Qing dynasty (1644–1911), Kangxi period (1662–1722)
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Edwin C. Vogel, 1963
Accession Number
63.213.1
Tags
Art Historical Context
This enchanting porcelain figure captures the legendary Bodhidharma, the semi-mythical Indian monk revered as the founder of ChanZen) Buddhism in China. Depicted mid-stride across the Yangtze River on a slender—a famous tale symbolizing his miraculous journey to spread enlightenment—the sculpture embodies spiritual determination and Buddhist devotion. Standing just over 8 inches tall, its compact form invites close contemplation, highlighting the monk's flowing robes and resolute gaze. Crafted during the Kangxi period (1662–1722) of the Qing dynasty, this piece exemplifies imperial China's po...