Yungang Grotto 11: Cross-Ankled Bodhisattva Niche

CHINA, Shanxi, Datong; Northern Wei dynasty

Located at the center of the third tier on the east wall, the lintel of this trapezoidal niche is decorated with carvings of apsaras and heavenly beings making offerings with joined palms. Within the niche is Maitreya Bodhisattva seated with legs crossed at the ankles and whose bare feet resting on two lotuses. Maitreya is depicted with delicate facial features and a gentle, compassionate expression. The Bodhisattva wears a headdress decorated with a Buddha image, as well as ornaments such as earrings, necklaces, armlets, and bracelets. One particularly notable ornament is the necklace depicting two dragons holding pearls in their mouths. A stole is draped over the arms of the Bodhisattva, and the lower body is clothed in a long garment. Flanking Maitreya are two attendant Bodhisattvas, while two kneeling figures hold lotuses on both sides of the throne. On the two sides of the niche are multi-story pagodas with small Buddhas contained in each story. Below the niche is a carved incense burner flanked by figures making offerings, ten on each side.