A Dream Beyond War

Photographer

Yong Wang

Category

Black & White Photography - Historical

Company

Submission Group

Amateur

Year

2024

Country / Region:

United States

Traditionally, Guan Yu, the revered general from the Three Kingdoms period, is depicted as a symbol of war and protection. However, in his hometown in Shanxi Province, he is seen in an unusually peaceful pose, lying down as if taking a nap. This sculpture, created during the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), challenges conventional portrayals. The shadows of the faceless audience captured by his side seem astonished by the design, finding this surreal setting and encounter with the sculpture almost dreamlike.