JL Cogburn

Cliff Carvings of the God of Medicine

Cliff Carvings of the God of Medicine

Named Yaoshi Rock Grottoes because it primarily enshrines the Medicine Buddha (the Healing Buddha) of Buddhism, this site is a remarkable collection of rock-carved statues. Perched on a steep cliff halfway up the mountain, the densely packed cliffside carvings cover the entire rock face, creating a breathtaking spectacle. The grottoes were first constructed in the second year of the Kaicheng era of the Tang Dynasty (837 CE), over a thousand years ago, making them a rare masterpiece of Tang Dynasty sculpture. Yet, this artistic treasure remains little known to the world.
  • Sichuan, 2023
  • Photo license: CC BY-SA
  • View on Flickr