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Guangzhai Temple Seven Jewel Tower: Buddha Triad Niche
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Guangzhai Temple Seven Jewel Tower: Buddha Triad Niche
CHINA, Shaanxi, Xi’an; Wu Zhou period (684–705), dated 701–705; Limestone; H: 105.5 cm; Agency for Cultural Affairs, Tokyo, Japan
The human-headed bird on the lintel makes this relief unique. The hybrid figure is probably one of the Eight Classes of Dharma Protectors, either a garuda or a gandharva. Two figures riding on birds fly toward the central figure.
The throned Buddha sits with legs pendent and right hand in abhaya (fearlessness) mudra. The figure’s circular nimbus is rimmed with sun-like webbing. Bodhisattvas stand on either side, both slightly inclined towards the Buddha. Their nimbuses are peach-shaped. A mountain censer is located beneath the Buddha, guarded by lions. |
