Medium: paper

Dimensions: 272×133cm

Origin: collected 1950s

Located in Hu Bei Pavilion (built in 1962, literally means “pavilion that shelters steles”) at South of Yuelu Academy of Changsha, the Stele of Lushan Temple was made of bluestone and had a curve top. The inscription of the stele was made by Li Yong in Kaishu (a regular style of handwriting), and printed by a “yellow crane immortal” (who was said to be Li Yong, no concrete evidence though). At the top are characters cut in relief “Stele of Lushan Temple”, which remain clear and intact. The inscription is formed in 28 lines, 56 characters for each line, 1400 characters in total, of which only 1000 are recognizable today due to weathering and other outside abrasion. The inscription tells the evolution of Lushan Templeas( from three kingdoms period to Tang Dynasty ) as well as religion sects prevailing in different times. Featuring with gorgeous prose, powerful strokes and exquisite carving, the stele was hailed as “San Jue Stele” (literally means a stele that reaches top level in prose, calligraphy, and carving) or “Beihai San Jue” (Li Yong once served as sheriff of Beihai). It is by now the oldest and most valuable stable inscription existing in Changsha.