Chengde Eight Outlying Temples: Pavilion with Amitayus Buddha

CHINA, Hebei, Chengde; Qing dynasty

Covered in gold designs, this black lacquered pavilion is divided into three main sections: the base, the area housing the seated Amitayus Buddha, and the roof structure.
The base is decorated in a variety of patterns such as key, flowers, and clouds. It stands on four sturdy legs which turn up at the cloud-embellished corners.
Enshrined in the center, Amitayus Buddha has a tall usnisa surrounded by a jeweled crown. His hands form the dhyana (meditation) mudra while holding a longevity vase. Behind, there is a screen which has an arched opening in the center and is painted with the eight auspicious symbols.
Four slender, decorated columns support the structure above the Buddha, together with a framework made of plain wood. On the first level, there are curved eaves followed by a miniature pavilion with a square pyramidal roof. The corners of the roof curve upwards, and in the center, there is a harmika in the shape of a Sumera throne and a rectangular block with flower motifs as the spire.