Laojun Stone Sculpture in Quanzhou

The Laojun Stone Sculpture, one of China’s largest Taoist stone carvings, is located in the ma[...]

The Laojun Stone Sculpture, one of China’s largest Taoist stone carvings, is located in the main scenic area of Qingyuan Mountain Scenic Area in Fengze District, Quanzhou City, and is a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit. Carved during the Song Dynasty, according to the ‘Annals of Quanzhou Prefecture’: ‘The stone statue is naturally formed, with only minor carvings added by enthusiasts.’ This brief description adds an air of mystery to the statue.
The stone statue stands at a height of 5.1 meters, with a thickness of 7.2 meters and a width of 7.3 meters, covering an area of 55 square meters. The statue depicts Laojun wearing a wind cap, with clear forehead wrinkles, eyes looking straight ahead, a prominent nose bridge, right earlobe reaching the shoulder, a flying beard, a smiling face, left hand resting on the knee, right hand leaning on a table, with the index and little fingers slightly protruding forward, as if playing a musical instrument. With a green mountain as its backdrop, the statue sits majestically, highlighting the secluded valley and detachment from the mundane world.

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The fine carvings on the head, forehead, eyes, beard, and mustache are uniquely crafted. The entire statue has distinct clothing folds, with a soft yet strong knife work and exquisite craftsmanship. The exaggeration is done without losing its meaning, integrating seamlessly without any superfluous marks. The statue vividly and realistically portrays the kind and content expression of an elderly person, thus becoming a symbol of health and longevity. It is open all year round from 8:00 to 17:00.

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