Nantian Temple: Amitabha Buddha Triad

CHINA, Fujian, Quanzhou; Song dynasty

These rock carvings are found on the back wall of the main hall of Nantian Temple, which is situated at the foot of Daishan, in Quanzhou, Fujian. The rock carvings were made in 1219 during the Southern Song dynasty, and funded with money raised by a monk named Shoujing. Amitabha, Avalokitesvara, and Mahasthamaprapta, known as the Amitabha Buddha Triad, are carved in high relief from the rock wall and sit 1 m apart. The colossal figures are the tallest rock carvings found in Fujian to date. The triad was listed as a Provincial Cultural Heritage in 1985.
Amitabha Buddha is located in the center, and measures 5.1 m high, sitting in full lotus position on a 1.8 m high lotus throne. The Buddha has curled hair and thin lips, with long earlobes that hang down to the shoulders. The figure wears a monastic robe that bares the right shoulder, with a swastika on the chest. Stringed beads are tied at the waist, and the Buddha forms the dhyana (meditation) mudra. Flanking the Buddha are Avalokitesvara and Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattvas. Both are 4.2 m high and sit in full lotus position on lotus thrones, which are 1.8 m in height. Each Bodhisattva wears an ornate crown, loose-fitting robes, and a necklace. The edges of their robes flow outward. Avalokitesvara, on the right, holds a vase with the right hand, placing it in between the knees, while the left hand is held up high. Mahasthamaprapta, on the left, holds a sutra scroll in the left hand, placing it on the knee while the right hand held up high. The realistic triad is carved in detail and showcases the sculptural style of the Tang dynasty (618–907). Two carved columns with dragons wrapped around them are above on either side of Amitabha. Carved bracket sets to support the eaves are at the top of the columns, forming the shape of a niche.