Bazhong Rock Carvings Southern Niche 83: Two-Headed Buddha

CHINA, Sichuan, Bazhong; Tang dynasty

Southern Niche 83 is also known as the Two-Headed Buddha Niche. Located in the middle layer of the northern section on the east cliff of Shenxian Slope, it was constructed during the High Tang period (712–756). The niche is carved in the shape of a double-eave canopy, and measures 1.2 m wide, 1.66 m high, and 0.44 m deep. The back wall of the niche contains three statues. The central Buddha is particularly unique, as it is the only Two-Headed Buddha statue in Sichuan, and one of only a few such carvings among Chinese cave sculptures. This image was recorded in detail in the Great Tang Records on the Western Regions written by Master Xuanzang. There are similar figures being preserved in Mogao Caves 72 and 231 in Dunhuang.
The 67 cm high Two-Headed Buddha sits cross-legged on a raised platform, wearing a monastic robe with a decorative collar. The left hand forms the bhumisparsa (earth-touching) mudra. Behind the statue are a petal-shaped nimbus and a round aureole, both edged with flames. The main Buddha is flanked by two other Buddhas standing on lotus pedestals, each wearing a draped, double-layer monastic robe. Behind the Buddhas’ heads are nimbuses with the same design as that of the central Buddha.
In front of the central platform is a circular incense burner on a raised pedestal, flanked by two lions facing each other. High reliefs of seven donor figures are sculpted at the bottom of side walls, but the figures have been severely weathered.