Shizhongshan Grottoes Niche 9

CHINA, Yunnan, Dali

Located at the Lion’s Pass, Niche 9 was carved during the late Dali Kingdom (937–1253) The niche is 1.2 m wide, 0.6 m high, and 0.2 m deep, and contains seven images. The central figure is King Xinuluo (reigned 649–674), accompanied by the queen. Both the king and queen sit in full lotus position on thrones. They wear long, large-sleeved robes. Between them is a seated prince with his right arm raised; something may have been in his hand, but it has since been lost. A princess can be found to the left of the king at shoulder height, and a prince sits to the right of the queen. A male and a female attendant stand on the left and right sides of the throne, respectively. The female attendant holds a feathered fan in her left hand, while the male holds a writing brush.
A rectangular offering table is depicted in front of the throne. Three bowls rest on the table. A tablet with four inscription lines reading “King Xinuluo, the queen, and their children” is located above them.