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Dazu Rock Carvings Beishan Cave 136: Samantabhadra Bodhisattva
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Dazu Rock Carvings Beishan Cave 136: Samantabhadra Bodhisattva
CHINA, Chongqing, Dazu; Southern Song dynasty (1127-1279), dated 1143; Stone; H: 2.15 m
This statue is located on the north wall of the cave, directly opposite Manjusri Bodhisattva. According to the inscription above the Manjusri carving, both works were sponsored by a devotee named Zhao Pengnian.
Samantabhadra is 1.1 m high and sits in full lotus position on a lotus throne. The throne is placed atop a six-tusked elephant, 97 cm high, which is being led by a mahout. Samantabhadra wears a tall headdress, flowing garments, a long stole, and chest ornaments. One hand holds a ruyi (wish-fulfilling talisman). Surrounding the Bodhisattva is a flaming nimbus and a plain, lightly engraved aureole.
Samantabhadra’s elephant wears an ornament on its head and has a damaged trunk. The mahout, 1.09 m high, has a round face, wide eyes, and a wrinkled brow. He holds the elephant’s reins in both hands. |
