the image is a remake of the previous re-interpreted image of mary help of christians, who is the marian patroness venerated in the national shrine-basilica of sheshan, the first historical basilica erected in eastern asia. during the cultural revolution, the original statue was destroyed, with only the dragon base remaining. additionally, a traditional image of mary help of christians continues to be highly venerated in the sheshan basilica, enshrined atop its main high altar.