Miyasako Rock Carvings

JAPAN, Oita, Bungoono

Situated on a hillside on the Ogata River’s east bank, the rock carvings date from the second half of the 12th century, during the Heian (794–1185) to Kamakura (1185–1333) period. Divided between the east and west caves, at a distance of about 100 m apart, these are niches carved directly into the tuff. The site was listed as a National Historic Site in 1934.
There are five figures in the east cave, centered upon the seated Vairocana Buddha. The Buddha’s right hand is raised, while the left hand forms the varada (wish-granting) mudra. To the left is Acala, while Vaisravana stands to the right. The far right and left sides are carved with Narayana and Guhyapada.
The west cave consists of Amitabha Buddha, Sakyamuni Buddha, and the Medicine Buddha. Each Buddha is 145 cm in height and is seated on a square throne in full lotus position, with the edges of the robe draping over the throne. The high-relief carvings are almost freestanding. They have long faces, broad bodies, and wear monastic robes that leave much of the chest bare. Paint was used to accentuate details, but the colors seem unnatural, which suggests that it was added by a later generation. The quality and style of the carvings suggest the work of local sculptors.