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Shizhongshan Grottoes Niche 13: Ajaya Avalokitesvara
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Shizhongshan Grottoes Niche 13: Ajaya Avalokitesvara
CHINA, Yunnan, Dali; Dali Kingdom (937–1253); Stone; H: 60 cm
This bas-relief of Ajaya Avalokitesvara is located within a shallow arched niche. Ribbons hang down to the shoulders from beneath the headdress. Much of the body’s ornamentation has been lost to weathering. A long, tight-fitting skirt is fastened with a sash around the waist. The right hand is raised, but the contents or mudra are no longer discernible.
Ajaya Avalokitesvara was an important figure of the Achili branch of Vajrayana Buddhism found in the Dali Kingdom (937-1253). Commonly identified as a male with a slim figure, this figure is often dressed in the Indian attire worn by Bodhisattvas, the style of which was developed in northeastern India during the Pala period (circa 8th-12th century). |
