Shisunshan Rock Carvings Niche 4: Western Pure Land

CHINA, Sichuan, Chengdu; Tang dynasty

Located at the southern end of the caves and constructed during the Mid-Tang period (756–846), Niche 4 was sculpted according to the Amitabha Sutra. The niche measures 2.5 m in width and 2.7 m in height. There are three platforms extending from the niche entrance to the back wall. The first platform displays Manjusri and Samantabhadra Bodhisattvas on both sides while two rows of heavenly musicians, four in each row, are sculpted in the center. The second platform contains a lotus pond of seven treasures within which figures can be seen sitting on lotuses in various positions.
The third platform supports the Amitabha Buddha Triad, all of whom have nimbuses and aureoles around their damaged heads. The three walls are decorated with pavilions and sculpted with trees, sutra pillars, beings listening to the Dharma, and birds, including peacocks and parrots.