Feilai Peak Caves Niche 99: Amitabha Buddha and Attendants

CHINA, Zhejiang, Hangzhou; Yuan dynasty

Located on a cliff to the west of Huyuan (Calling the Apes) Cave, this north-facing niche contains three freestanding statues of figures seated on lotus thrones. The central figure, Amitabha Buddha, measures 2.2 m high. Flanking Amitabha are Manjusri Bodhisattva and Tara, each approximately 1.5 m high. Beneath the niche is an inscription stating that the carving was commissioned by an official with the surname of Yang in the year 1292.
Amitabha Buddha has a high usnisa and tightly curled hair, an urna on the forehead, and elongated earlobes. The Buddha wears a monastic robe that partially covers the chest. Both hands form the dhyana (meditation) mudra and hold an alms bowl. Tara, to the right, sits in relaxation posture wearing a five-leaf crown and numerous accessories. One hand is placed on the knee, while the other is raised before the chest. Manjusri, to the left, sits in full lotus position, wearing a crown and accessories similar to Tara’s. One hand raises the sword of wisdom, while the other holds a scroll before the chest.