Guangzhai Temple Seven Jewel Tower: Buddha Triad Niche

CHINA, Shaanxi, Xi’an; Tang dynasty

There are significant differences in the design of this relief with the others from the same place. The Buddha is seated in full lotus position upon a Sumeru throne. The figure’s missing right hand was probably in abhaya (fearlessness) mudra. The elaborate nimbus is decorated with vine-like patterns while the intersecting aureole is filled with cloud motifs.
The nimbuses of the attendant Bodhisattvas are filled with flames. Both figures turn toward the Buddha while standing in different postures on double lotus pedestals. The Bodhisattva on the right has hands raised in the anjali (reverence) mudra while the other Bodhisattva stands in a slight tribhanga posture with one hand raised and the other hand holding a vase. A canopy capped by a jeweled lotus shelters the Buddha, while two lotuses float above the Bodhisattvas in an unusual and unique design. The inscription at the bottom names Feng Fengyi and other numerous donors.