Guangzhai Temple Seven Jewel Tower: Buddha Triad Niche

CHINA, Shaanxi, Xi’an; Wu Zhou period

The Buddha is seated in full lotus position with the right hand in bhumisparsa (earth-touching) mudra. The figure wears a monastic robe that leaves the right shoulder bare. All three figures have nimbuses but the Buddhas is formed by two circles while the Bodhisattvas’ are peach shaped. The two attendants, both symmetrical in design, stand on lotus blossoms that grow from the same plant that provides the Buddha his seat. The Bodhisattva on the right carries a lotus in one hand, while the other hand opens in varada (wish-granting) mudra. A stole wraps diagonally across their body, and another trails to the pedestal. The protruding lintel above the figures is carved with leaves recognizably those of the Bodhi tree. Two apsaras float down on either side of the enclosing ogee arch, their stoles and robes flowing gracefully behind them.