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Maijishan Grotto 142: Auspicious Buddha on Gayasirsa Mountain
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Maijishan Grotto 142: Auspicious Buddha on Gayasirsa Mountain
CHINA, Gansu, Tianshui; Northern Wei dynasty (386–534); Clay; H: 55 cm
This carving, located at the upper left corner of the back wall, depicts the auspicious Buddha at Gayasirsa (Elephant Head Mountain) as described in the Guangzhai Commentary on the Lotus Sutra. At Gayasirsa, which is near Vulture Peak, the Buddha is said to have taught the Dharma to nagas and spirits.
The relief sculpture depicts an elephant amid a rocky outcrop with a vulture perched on its head. Both the elephant and vulture appear to look down at the Buddha teaching the Dharma to a kneeling disciple who joins his palms. A tall figure stands behind the disciple. |
