 |
Dazu Rock Carvings Beishan Niche 5: Vaisravana
|
| |
|
Dazu Rock Carvings Beishan Niche 5: Vaisravana
CHINA, Chongqing, Dazu; Tang dynasty (618-907), dated 892-898; Stone; H: 2.5 m
Situated in the southern section of the Beishan cave site, this niche has a width of 2.45 m, a height of 2.95 m, and a depth of 1.55 m. The central figure, Vaisravana, Heavenly King of the North, has a round nimbus, a tall crown, chainmail armor, and sturdy boots. Ornaments and a knife hang at his waist. Both of the statue’s hands have been damaged.
Two yaksas, Nilavajra and Vilamba, support the king’s feet. Heavenly warriors flank the king, and Prthivi, the Earth Goddess, stands beside him at waist level. Among the surviving carvings of Vaisravana in Dazu, this one is the most complete and well-preserved. |
