Lingquan Temple Caves Daliu Cave

CHINA, Henan, Anyang

Located on the western slope of East Lanfengshan, Daliu Cave was excavated in 546 during the Eastern Wei dynasty, the same year as the founding of Lingquan Temple. An inscription on the side of the cave entrance reads, “Built by the monk, Daoping, in 546 of the Eastern Wei dynasty.” It is the first and largest cave built at the temple site. The cave faces west and measures 3.78 m in width, 3.5 m in height, and 4.44 m in depth. Low platforms along the three interior walls each support a seated Buddha with damaged heads and arms. The Buddhas on the back (east), north, and south walls are Vairocana, Amitabha, and Maitreya respectively. The figures were most likely placed inside upon the cave’s completion during the Northern Qi dynasty (550–577).
With a damaged head, hands, and mandorla, the Vairocana Buddha on the back wall wears a monastic robe that covers both shoulders. Seated in full lotus position on a layered throne, the Buddha has a strong, muscular physique and broad shoulders. Engraved on the chest is a swastika. The outer layer of the mandorla behind Vairocana is embellished with a flame pattern, and the inner layer contains a honeysuckle pattern. The nimbus behind the head is decorated with lotuses. The sculpture is carved in the shallow, simple, and neat style of the Northern Qi dynasty.
On each side wall, there is a platform carved with four small arched niches which house deities. The south wall features the Tree Deity, Wind Deity, and Fire Deity, while the images of the Jewel Deity, Elephant Deity, River Deity, and Mountain Deity appear on the north wall. The River Deity wears a crown and grasps a fish that is wrapped around his back with both hands. The Mountain Deity, also wearing a crown, supports a small mountain at shoulder level with the right hand as the left hand rests upon the left knee.