Jiajiang Thousand Buddha Rock Carvings Niche 159: Vaisravana

CHINA, Sichuan, Leshan; Tang dynasty

Vaisravana is the Heavenly King of the North and a Dharma protector who resides on the slopes of the northern side of Mount Sumeru. Located within Niche 159, the sculpture dates to the Late Tang period (846–907). The figure has fierce, glaring eyes, an elaborate headdress, and stands atop three yaksas. Behind Vaisravana is a large crescent moon. A trident was once held in Vaisravana’s right hand and a pagoda used to rest in his left hand, but both objects are now missing. The gesture of Vaisravana’s raised hands give him an eminent and valiant bearing.
Sculpted with the curvaceous and immensely detailed line incisions that are characteristic of Tang dynasty sculptures, this particular portrayal of Vaisravana is considered to be the most impressive among the numerous depictions of the figure found within the Jiajiang Thousand Buddha Rock Carvings.