Longmen Grotto 305: Udayana Buddha Niche

CHINA, Henan, Luoyang; Tang dynasty

This grotto is located in the northern area of the Yi River’s west bank. A niche on the back (west) wall measuring 1.4 m in width, 1.4 m in height, and 0.6 m in depth houses a statue of Udayana Buddha. According to the Ekottara Agama, the original Udayana Buddha statue was carved from sandalwood and commissioned by King Udayana of Vatsa during the Buddha’s lifetime, and is considered to be the first statue of Sakyamuni Buddha. The Udayana Buddha statues at Longmen may have been modeled after the image of Udayana brought from India by Master Xuanzang. Currently, there are more than 70 similar statues still extant among the grottoes, with the earliest dated to 655 and the latest to the time of Emperor Gaozong (reigned 649–683).
The Buddha, with a high topknot and strong physique, sits erect on a high square throne. The bare feet rest on a lotus pedestal. Facial features are carved in a simple and solemn manner. The Buddha’s robe reflects a style from the Indian Gupta period (circa 320–550). Although aged, the statue is one of the more well-preserved Udayana Buddha statues at the Longmen Grottoes.