Yungang Grotto 6: Life of the Buddha - First Turning of the Dharma Wheel

CHINA, Shanxi, Datong; Northern Wei dynasty

Located in the lower tier on the right side of the east wall, this trapezoidal niche contains carvings depicting the First Turning of the Dharma Wheel.The figure within the niche is Sakyamuni Buddha, flanked by seven small attendant figures on each side. The figures include Bodhisattvas, disciples, and heavenly beings. The Buddha has a high usnisa and wears a loose robe tied at the waist. Behind the Buddha are a nimbus and mandorla decorated with flame patterns and seated Buddha images.
Below the Buddha are three round objects representing Dharma wheels, with a deer and two figures kneeling with joined palms on each side. The kneeling figures on the right wear Chinese clothing, while those on the left wear Bodhisattva clothing.
The lintel of the niche is carved with imitation curtains, six panels containing images of apsaras, two heavenly beings on each end, and a row of six seated Buddhas at the top.