Shizhongshan Grottoes Niche 4

CHINA, Yunnan, Dali

This niche, located in the vicinity of Shizhong Temple, contains an Avatamsaka Triad and was carved in the late Nanzhao (752–902) and early Dali (937–1253) kingdoms. The arched niche is 2.12 m wide, 2.25 m high, and 0.46 m deep. Vairocana Buddha is the central figure and has curled hair, a usinsa, and fine eyebrows. His monastic robe covers the left shoulder, leaving the right shoulder bare. The Buddha’s right hand forms the vitarka (teaching) mudra, while the left has been damaged. The aureole and lotus nimbus behind the Buddha are ringed with flames.
Samantabhadra Bodhisattva, to the left of the Buddha, is seated upon a lotus platform atop an elephant. A mahout guides the elephant with a hook around its ear. The Bodhisattva holds a ruyi (wish-fulfilling talisman). Riding on a lion, Manjusri Bodhisattva is on the right. Both the lion and portions of the Bodhisattva have been damaged beyond recognition. The Bodhisattvas both have a nimbus ringed with flames, similar to the Buddha’s. The disciples Mahakasyapa and Ananda appear on either side of the Buddha’s shoulders with palms joined.