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Shizhongshan Grottoes Niche 14: Buddha Pentad
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Shizhongshan Grottoes Niche 14: Buddha Pentad
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Shizhongshan Grottoes Niche 14: Buddha Pentad
CHINA, Yunnan, Dali; Nanzhao Kingdom (752–902)
Niche 14 is located in the Sand Valley area. This Buddha pentad was constructed in the later years of the Nanzhao Kingdom (752-902). At that time, the niche was carved with images of a Buddha, two Bodhisattvas, and two disciples. The 3.2 m high niche contains a seated Maitreya Buddha wearing a monastic robe over both shoulders. His right hand probably forms the vitarka (teaching) mudra, while his left hand is positioned at his waist. A nimbus with a flame pattern around its edges is depicted on the wall behind the Buddha.
The disciples Mahakasyapa and Ananda stand with palms joined on either side of the Buddha. Other attending disciples located beside the Bodhisattvas, which have been severely damaged, are no longer discernible. |
