Yungang Grotto 7: Cross-Ankled Bodhisattvas

CHINA, Shanxi, Datong; Northern Wei dynasty

Located on either side of the window in the front (south) wall of the rear chamber are two cross-ankled Bodhisattvas seated within trapezoid-shaped niches. The lintel of each niche is decorated with imitation draperies and images of apsaras or other heavenly beings. The Bodhisattvas sit on raised platforms and appear to hold an object in one hand while forming a mudra with the other. They wear headdresses featuring a Buddha image, long garments, and stoles draped over their shoulders. Each Bodhisattva has delicate facial features and a slight smile. Heavenly beings kneeling with joined palms are carved on both sides of the inner walls of each niche. Apsaras fly gracefully above them.