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Yungang Grotto 10: Buddha Teaching the Dharma
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Yungang Grotto 10: Buddha Teaching the Dharma
CHINA, Shanxi, Datong; Northern Wei dynasty (386–534); Stone
Located in the third tier on the right side of the rear chamber 's front (south) wall, this trapezoidal niche features a Buddha seated in full lotus position upon a rectangular throne. The Buddha has a high usnisa, a gentle expression, and wears a monastic robe over one shoulder. The hands form the abhaya (fearlessness) mudra. Behind the Buddha are a nimbus decorated with flame patterns and a mandorla. On each side of the Buddha, four heavenly beings kneel with joined palms. The lintel of the niche is decorated with carvings of lotuses, honeysuckle patterns, and two overlapping rows of triangular patterns. |
