Yungang Grotto 9: Buddha Niche

CHINA, Shanxi, Datong; Northern Wei dynasty

Located in the third tier of the west wall within the front chamber, this house-shaped niche is carved to resemble wooden architecture that is divided into three bays by two four-story pagodas. The top of the niche has imitation roof and bracket sets, as well as a golden garuda on each corner and in the center of the roof.
A Buddha is seated with legs crossed at the ankles in the central bay, wearing a monastic robe draped over one shoulder and flanked by a lion on both sides of the throne. The Buddha’s nimbus is decorated with lotus petals and bordered by flames, and his mandorla features seated Buddhas. Carved on the wall around the Buddha’s mandorla are lotus flowers and figures making offerings. The pagodas on either side of the main statue have seated Buddhas in a small niche on each story, with triangular patterns on the eaves above each figure. A child is depicted being reborn among plantain leaves at the very top of each structure.
The bay on each side of the niche contains an attendant Bodhisattva wearing headdress, long garment, armlets, and draped stoles. Each figure holds a flower bud in one hand and stands in an elegant posture. The detailing of the garments and ornaments worn by the Bodhisattvas consists of faintly incised, smooth lines. Above each figure is an apsara depicted in a flying posture and wearing a long stole.