Longmen Grotto 159: Amitabha Buddha

CHINA, Henan, Luoyang; Tang dynasty

This Amitabha statue is the main Buddha within the grotto. The Buddha has a round face, full cheeks, and an urna between the eyebrows. A usnisa displays a whirling pattern, the eyes are slightly closed, and thick lips and a broad nose define the face. There are three lines on the neck. An oval nimbus is depicted behind the statue. The chest and shoulders are broad and the figure wears a loose monastic robe over an inner robe that is tied at the waist with a sash. The Buddha’s right hand is held at the side of the chest in the abhaya (fearlessness) mudra, while the left is held palm out, with the index finger pointing down. Seated in full lotus position on a square throne, the legs are hidden beneath robes which descend over the throne in graceful folds. Lions stood on each side of the throne. However, only the one on the left remains. According to archaeological studies, the statue was commissioned by the Prince of Wei, Li Tai, in 641.