Guangyuan Thousand Buddha Cliff Rock Carvings Cave 744

CHINA, Sichuan, Guangyuan

Located in the middle to lower tier on the southern end of the cave site, Cave 744 was constructed during the High Tang period (712–756). It measures 4.94 m in width, 1.95 m in height, and 3.26 m in depth. On an altar with a carved back screen in the center of the cave, there is a group of sculptures including a Buddha, two disciples, two Bodhisattvas, and two warriors. The Buddha statue in the center is well preserved, but the heads of the other statues are missing. The openwork back screen wall is carved with two Bodhi trees that extend up to the ceiling, as well as with images of the Eight Classes of Dharma Protectors; this carving is one of the more unique and exquisite features of the cave.
The central statue is a 1.7 m high Sakyamuni Buddha seated in full lotus position on a lotus throne. The base of the throne is carved with the heads of elephants at each corner, and an incense burner on the front. The Buddha has a rounded face and wears a monastic robe that covers both shoulders. There is a petal-shaped nimbus behind the head, and above it is a canopy decorated with a jewel. The carvings in the cave exemplify the intricate, lavish style of the High Tang period.