Feilai Peak Caves Niche 84: Usnisavijaya

CHINA, Zhejiang, Hangzhou; Yuan dynasty

Located on the southern bank of Lengquan (Cold Fountain) Stream, this niche contains nine statues. The niche is highest in the center, with two shorter rectangular wings on each side. The central section is 3.35 m in height, and each wing is 2.05 m high.
The central part of the niche resembles a stupa, a common feature of Yuan dynasty rock carvings. The main figure, a Three-Headed, Eight-Armed Usnisavijaya, sits on a lotus throne within the body of the stupa. Some of the hands make mudras, while others hold a vase, a small Buddha image, and a jewel. Avalokitesvara and Mahasthamprapta Bodhisattvas stand beside the lotus throne. Both Bodhisattvas hold a lotus and whisk. A pair of Dharma protectors are carved in each wing of the niche; Acala holds a sword, Mahabala holds a vajra, Eakkiraja carries a hook, and Niadanda grasps a cane. A spire composed of stacked rings is located in the upper section of the niche. It is flanked by two deities on lotus thrones borne by clouds.