Luyeyuan Caves

CHINA, Shanxi, Datong

Luyeyuan means Deer Park. These caves are situated in the north cliff of Dashagou (Great Sand Gorge) on the outskirts of Datong city. Excavation began in 466 and completed in 471 during the Northern Wei dynasty. Discovered in 1980, they are the first caves that were constructed after the Northern Wei dynasty moved the capital to Pingcheng (present day Datong). Stretching at a distance of 30 m from east to west, there are 11 caves, of which only Cave 6 contains sculptures. The other ones are meditation caves, which vary in size and have similar rectangular layouts and vaulted ceilings.
Cave 6 is situated in the center of the cave system. It has an apsidal layout, vaulted ceiling, and a pointed arched doorway. The cave measures 3.2 m in width, 3.5 m in height, and 2.53 m in depth. The cave houses three statues. The 2.6 m high main Buddha statue sits in full lotus position. Portrayed with a round face and broad shoulders, the Buddha’s monastic robe crosses the left shoulder. The inner robe appears heavy with deep incisions in the drapery. Attendant Bodhisattvas on either side wear headdresses with stoles hanging on the sides of their heads. Two warriors flank the cave entrance. The figure on the left is 1.93 m in height, while the figure on the right is seriously weathered.