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Buddha Niches
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Buddha Niches
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Buddha Niches
CHINA; Tang dynasty (618–907), dated 724; Commissioned by Fakong; Limestone; H: 66 cm; Art Institute of Chicago, USA
This sculpture was originally a section of a Tang dynasty (618-907) pagoda. The niche contains three figures: a Buddha and two Bodhisattvas. The Buddha sits in full lotus position with the left hand in varada (wish-granting) mudra. The figure has a flame-patterned nimbus. The two Bodhisattvas are largely obscured from view after the restoration but they stand in the tribhanga posture on lotus pedestals. Two warriors stand guard outside the niche. The overshadowing pavilion roof is disgorged from the mouth of a creature that is flanked by dragons. The monk Fakong commissioned the sculpture in 724 as an offering to the Bodhisattvas Bhaisajyasamudgata and Bhaisajyaraja according to the inscription. |
