Pujiang Feixiange Rock Carvings Niche 9: Bodhi Figure Niche

CHINA, Sichuan, Chengdu; Tang dynasty

Niche 9 contains a total of 38 statues, including a Buddha, two disciples, two Bodhisattvas, two Heavenly Kings, heavenly musicians, apsaras, and Dharma protectors in the form of deities and nagas. Two Bodhi trees decorate the niche’s ceiling, and the facade of the altar at the bottom of the niche is decorated with aspects from the Six Dharma Symbolic Features. The main statue is a Bodhi Figure that is dressed like a Bodhisattva seated in full lotus position on a Sumeru throne. The statue has a broad chest and slim waist. The chest is adorned with a necklace, and a monastic robe covers the body. The left hand is positioned in front of the abdomen with the palm facing upward.
Beside the central figure are reliefs of two attending disciples with circular nimbuses, above which are Dharma protectors. The attending Bodhisattvas wear headdresses and have oval nimbuses. Two Heavenly Kings stand at the entrance with high bridged noses, deep eyes, and curled hair. They wear armor and stand with one hand raised while the other is lowered. Two more severely damaged figures may be seen at the entrance.