
Diting Sculpture
1. Introduction of Diting Sculpture Diting, a mythical beast closely associated with Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva in Buddhist culture, is traditionally depicted as a blend of various animal features, renowned for its keen hearing and discernment. This Diting Sculpture depicts Diting in a crouching posture, with a robust body, sturdy limbs, and forepaws firmly supported on a pedestal. Its head is noticeably turned back and slightly raised, creating a dynamic image of turning its head to listen, echoing Diting’s characteristic of “observing all directions.” A single, backward-curving horn is visible on its forehead, fangs are protruding from its mouth, and a curly mane encircles its neck. Layered scales are added to its shoulders and legs, giving it a typical composite mythical beast appearance. The entire Diting Sculpture is made of bronze, with a predominantly dark brown surface, accented with gold on the horn, shoulders, back, and some decorative details. The sculpture meticulously