Tianlongshan Cave 17: Buddha Pentad

CHINA, Shanxi, Taiyuan; Tang dynasty

This Buddha pentad, consisting of one Buddha seated in full lotus posture, two standing Bodhisattvas, and two seated Bodhisattvas, is located on the west wall. The head of the Buddha has been removed since these photos were taken, reducing the figure to 54 cm from its original 75 cm. A petal-shaped nimbus and an aureole are engraved behind. The figure has a sturdy build with broad shoulders, a strong chest, and a slim abdomen. The left hand is placed on the left knee, and the right hand, with damaged fingers, is raised to chest level. The Buddha wears a monastic robe draped over an inner robe. The skirt wraps both legs tightly, outlining the shapes of the feet, while the hem dangles in front of the pedestal.
The standing Bodhisattva on the right has been recently removed, and only the petal-shaped nimbus and the pedestal remain. The head and upper torso of the Bodhisattva standing on the left have also been removed, but the lower body remains, displaying a skirt that sags in a U shape under the navel. The two outermost Bodhisattvas are depicted sitting in the relaxation posture. The right Bodhisattva’s head and most parts of the body have been removed, and the left hand and left thigh are now damaged. Behind the head of the left Bodhisattva is a petal-shaped nimbus, and the head, now missing, was once draped with a stole that hung to the shoulders. This Bodhisattva wears a necklace, and the upper body, which is uncovered, leans slightly towards the Buddha. The figure has broad shoulders and wears a long skirt below the navel. The left arm has been damaged, while the right arm is bent at the elbow, seemingly to hold an object. The damaged left leg is crossed on the seat while the right leg hangs down naturally.