Longmen Grotto 104

CHINA, Henan, Luoyang

This grotto, also known as North Binyang Grotto, is located in the northern area of the Yi River’s west bank next to Grotto 140. Construction commenced between 508 and 523 during the Northern Wei dynasty and completed during the rule of Emperor Gaozong (reigned 649–683). Most of the sculptures were carved in the Early Tang period (618–712). The grotto, with a rectangular layout and a vaulted ceiling, is 9.73 m in width, 10 m in height, and 9.5 m in depth.
The statue of Amitabha Buddha seated in full lotus position upon a hexagonal Sumeru throne on the back (west) wall is a prominent feature of the grotto. Amitabha’s heavy monastic robe crosses the left shoulder. The right hand is held at chest level. Depicted behind Amitabha, a flame-patterned mandorla extends onto the ceiling. In the center of the ceiling, a lotus motif is surrounded by 11 flying apsaras. Warrior images on the lower parts of the throne are damaged.
Two Heavenly Kings, portrayed on the front (east) wall within the grotto, are clad in armor and hold vajras as they trample demons beneath their feet. There are several small niches on the front parts of the side walls dating to the Tang dynasty. Within one of the niches is a statue of Udayana Buddha dated to between 650 and 679 of the Tang dynasty. Most of the niches are damaged and bereft of statues. Carved on the floor of the grotto are 24 lotuses separated by stems and leaves. Two rows of flowers and horned dragon heads embellish the 28 cm high doorsill.