South Xiangtangshan Grotto 2: Western Pure Land

CHINA, Hebei, Handan; Northern Qi dynasty

This relief was originally located on the upper section of the front wall of the main chamber, but was removed in the 20th century. An image of Amitabha Buddha seated in full lotus position on a lotus throne can be found in the center of the relief. The Buddha wears a monastic robe with the right shoulder exposed, and the right hand probably forms the abhaya (fearlessness) mudra, while the left hand is held in front of the abdomen. The figure is flanked by Avalokitesvara and Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattvas. A Bodhi tree is visible in the nimbus. A pond of seven treasures is located in front of the throne, and lotus-born children can be found atop lotuses in the water. Bodhisattvas riding on clouds are depicted above and on both sides of the Bodhi tree. Although the layout is complicated and there are many figures in the relief, it is arranged in an orderly fashion. It exhibits many characteristics of the Western Pure Land that typically appeared in its artistic representation during the Southern and Northern Dynasties (386–589).