Carving Eternity: Shanxi Grottoes and Stone Sculptures -- From the Series "Looking Back at Shanxi"

Author: Wang Heng
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-05-01
Features: The (Offering Deity) is a common Buddhist figure in Buddhist grottoes. Whether carved in the lunettes or above the niches on both sides, or in a single form (without other figures), they are mostly depicted in groups. The does not wear the jeweled crown of a Bodhisattva; instead, they tie their hair up high and wear tight-fitting clothing, often adorned with flowing ribbons. The common posture is kneeling (either in the Central Asian style or fully kneeling), while standing images of the are generally found at the upper part of the lunettes and the corners.