Dazu Rock Carvings Beishan Cave 133

CHINA, Chongqing, Dazu

Situated in the middle section of the site, this cave was created during the Southern Song dynasty (1127–1279). It has a flat ceiling and is 2.25 m wide, 3.18 m high, and 3.11 m deep. The central figure on the back (east) wall is Water-Moon Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, seated in royal ease posture on a rectangular throne. Avalokitesvara wears a headdress, a complex garment draped with ribbons, and neck ornaments. One arm, resting on the knee, has been damaged; the other is positioned in the lap, counting a string of prayer beads. The figure has a petal-shaped nimbus decorated with flame patterns, and surrounding it are images of mountain ranges. A small vase on a rocky outcrop is located on the right side of the figure.
Smaller standing figures, wearing a robe with long sleeves and holding a plate in both hands, are depicted on each side of the Bodhisattva. The figure on the right has the appearance of an elderly male with a long beard and hair tied in a topknot. This is believed to be Sudhana. The figure on the left is a female with hair tied in a flat topknot. The figure is generally thought to be the Naga Girl.
Dharma protectors are also carved on the side walls of the cave, with two on each side. Each Dharma protector wears full body armor, a helmet, and stoles. The two figures closest to the doorway each have three heads and six arms, while the figures closest to Avalokitesvara each have four arms and one head. They hold various weapons and Dharma instruments including an axe, whip, sword, bowl, chain, spear, and a Dharma wheel. All of the figures have wide eyes and frightening expressions, giving them an imposing appearance.