Shikong Grottoes in Zhongwei
The grotto complex consists of 13 caves arranged from west to east: Flame Light Cave, Ten Thousand Buddhas Cave, Goddess of Fertility Cave, Lord Lao Cave, Three Pure Ones Cave, Jade Emperor Cave, Boundless Cave, Nine Beamless Halls, God of Wealth Cave, God of Medicine Cave, Goddess Cave, Dragon King Cave and Reclining Buddha Cave.
The Nine Beamless Halls is the largest and the core of the entire complex. It is 25 meters high, 15 meters deep and 13 meters wide, housing 88 main Buddha statues. Together with Bodhisattvas, Arhats and attendant figures, there are over 360 statues in total. Three grand niches stand on the main wall, with a group of five central statues. The main seated Buddha reaches 5 meters in height, built with a stone core covered in clay. Featuring spiral hair buns, a round face, long eyebrows and large eyes, the Buddha rests hands on shoulders, sits cross-legged with an exposed chest and wears a red kasaya, presenting a dignified, gentle and benevolent look.
The accompanying Bodhisattvas wear flower crowns and pearl necklaces, with bare chests and shoulders, bracelets on wrists, close-fitting long skirts and colorful sashes. They have full cheeks, slightly raised noses and a red auspicious mole between the brows, showcasing the elegant style of the prosperous Tang Dynasty. A fiery halo decorates the rear wall.
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