Longmen Grotto 1443: Niche

CHINA, Henan, Luoyang; Northern Wei dynasty

This niche, the fourth from the left on the upper tier of the south wall, was commissioned between 477 and 503 by monk Huizhen. Depicted on the upper section of the ogee arched lintel are apsaras who kneel with palms joined. On the lower section are small, seated Buddhas in meditation. Reliefs of dragon heads, columns engraved with decorative patterns, and warriors at the base are found on each side of the niche.
A Buddha, seated in full lotus position within the niche, is flanked by a Bodhisattva on each side. The head of the Buddha is missing. The Buddha has broad shoulders, a slender waist, and forms the dhyana (meditation) mudra with both hands. The close fitting robe of the Buddha, incised with orderly folds, crosses one shoulder. The multi-layered nimbus is filled with lotus petals, seated Buddha images, and apsaras. A mandorla displays a flame pattern and Buddha images. Apsaras are carved in relief on the interior wall of the niche. The two attendant Bodhisattvas stand in relief on either side of the niche. The Bodhisattvas have delicate features and wear headdresses. Each has one hand positioned before the chest, while the other hangs down naturally. Their upper bodies are bare and they wear long dhotis. A honeysuckle pattern is engraved at the bottom of the niche.