Bazhong Rock Carvings Southern Niche 16: Cintamanicakra Avalokitesvara

CHINA, Sichuan, Bazhong; Tang dynasty

Located in the center of Southern Niche 16, Cintamanicakra Avalokitesvara sits in a contemplative posture upon a lotus throne, with a tilted head resting on one hand. The Bodhisattva wears a headdress containing a small Buddha image, as well as bracelets, sash, and a long skirt. The facial features are delicate and refined. Avalokitesvara has six arms, which perform various actions. On the right side, the upper hand raises a lotus pod, the middle arm is bent inward, and the lower holds an object at the rim of the throne. On the left, the upper hand supports the Bodhisattva’s head, the middle hand holds a ruyi (wish-fulfilling talisman), and the lower hand holds a string of beads. Behind the statue is a petal-shaped nimbus and a round aureole.
Outside the niche is an inscription recording its restoration during the Tang dynasty, between the years 860 and 874. It also identifies the statue as Cintamanicakra Avalokitesvara, a manifestation of the Bodhisattva that was particularly popular during the Mid-Tang (756–846) and Late Tang (846–907) periods and the only one remaining in Bazhong.