Jiaochangba Caves

CHINA, Sichuan, Aba

The Jiaochangba Caves are located north of Maoxian county in Aba, and consist of 21 niches and 80 sculptures carved into an array of irregular rocks. Inscriptions found in Niches 2 and 7, both rectangular and double-layered niches, are dated to 630 of the Tang dynasty.
Niche 2 features a sculpture of Maitreya Buddha seated on a lotus throne, attended by two Bodhisattvas, two disciples, and two Dharma protectors. The Buddha’s left hand rests upon his knee, while his right hand is raised to his chest. A squatting lion is located on each side of the Buddha’s throne. The two Bodhisattvas, heavily adorned with ornaments, are each sided by a disciple who stands between them and the Buddha. Positioned on the outer sides of the group are two Dharma protectors who are attired in dhotis and bear weapons.
The majority of the carvings in the Jiaochangba Caves have eroded over time, as can be seen in Niche 7’s carving of Sakyamuni Buddha. It can still be discerned, however, that the Buddha is seated on a throne, and the hands form the dhyana (meditation) mudra. This particular sculpture is considerably larger than those found in other niches. An inscription located within the niche states that it was sponsored by Liang Dafeng and his wife.