This life-size photograph represents a delicate mural fragment in the BMA's collection. The fragment was extracted, in the early 20th century, from a wall-sized mural in a Daoist or Buddhist temple where the figure stood with a group of attendants. Lacking more specific identifying features, it is not possible to determine whether the subject is a Daoist or Buddhist devotee, but it probably came from Hebei or Shanxi Province. The fragile unfired clay support and actively flaking pigment layer require extensive conservation. Techniques necessary to support display may permanently damage the painting's appearance. Thus, the work is being studied and held until it can be safely conserved and exhibited.