Dazu Rock Carvings Baodingshan Small Buddha Bay Niche 4: Round Niches

CHINA, Chongqing, Dazu; Southern Song dynasty

This north-facing niche contains an altar that itself has small round niches on its four sides. Within the niches are engravings of seated Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and patriarchs. The back (south) wall is divided into upper and lower sections. Five rows of 166 small circular niches fill the upper section. The figures seated within the niches are vividly portrayed in various postures and expressions. Their hands either make a mudra or hold an object such as a sutra, jewel, drum, cymbals, or gong. Illustrations of the retributions due to the ten negative deeds are carved on the lower section and identified by inscriptions carved beside them.