Dazu Rock Carvings Beishan Cave 136: Sun-Moon Avalokitesvara

CHINA, Chongqing, Dazu; Southern Song dynasty

Located on the north wall of the cave, Sun-Moon Avalokitesvara sits in full lotus position on a square throne. The Bodhisattva wears a robe, highly elaborate chest ornaments, stoles, and a headdress decorated with lotuses and vine-like patterns. Avalokitesvara has a smooth, round face with a compassionate expression. The Bodhisattva has six hands: the upper hands carry the sun and the moon; the middle hands hold an alms bowl and willow branch; and the lower hands hold a sword and an axe decorated with a dragon head. A nimbus and mandorla are carved behind the figure.
A 1.35 m high statue of an elderly male figure with long eyebrows stands to the right of Avalokitesvara. A cloth is draped over the head of the figure. One hand holds a whisk while the other forms a mudra. The figure has the appearance of an Indian monk. A 1.36 m high female figure is to the left of Avalokitesvara. She has almond-shaped eyes and a topknot, wears a stole, and her hands are tucked into the long sleeves of her gown. A figure making an offering kneels in front of Avalokitesvara; however, this figure is severely damaged.