Niujiaozhai Rock Carvings Niche 1: Illustration of the Vimalakirti Sutra

CHINA, Sichuan, Meishan; Tang dynasty

The Vimalakirti Sutra is illustrated in Niche 1, which measures 1.73 m wide, 1.75 m high, and 1.05 m deep. The illustration, dating to the Mid-Tang period (756–846), is based on the “Chapter on Manjusri’s Visit” and the “Chapter on Observing Living Beings.” A total of 109 figures were sculpted. Vimalakirti and Manjusri sit opposite each other in a debate and are surrounded by a host of other figures.
Manjusri, whose face has been lost to weathering, is located on the right, sitting in full lotus position on a Sumeru throne with a nimbus and an aureole behind. The Bodhisattva wears a monastic robe, and the arms are adorned with armlets, while the body is decorated with beaded ornaments and draped with a stole. The left hand is placed on the left leg, and the right hand is slightly raised. Vimalakirti, on the left side of the niche, is depicted resting barefoot in a small pavilion. His mouth is slightly opened and he faces Manjusri. The face of Vimalakirti is damaged, but a long robe and an object in the left hand are still vaguely discernible.
The surrounding figures include attendants and an audience listening to the Dharma. On the left of Vimalakirti are a disciple and a female heavenly being, that was Sariputra transformed, as stated in the “Chapter on Observing Living Beings.”