Dharani Pillar, levels 6-9

Dali Kingdom, 1200-1220 AD
Kunming City Museum

Level 6 is a vase guarded by four Garudas. The next two levels display Buddhist images in pavilions (level 7, probably representing the Pure Lands) and mandorlas (level 8). The ninth and highest level is a cintamani (Buddhist jewel, representing the perfected mind) resting on a lotus. These levels have also been interpreted in terms of native Bai burial practices.

Taken as a whole, the pillar illustrates an evolved Yunnanese style, with its complicated mixture of Buddhist esoteric tradition, local practice, and possibly some influence from as far afield as Borobudur in Southeast Asia.