The Artistic Characteristics of the Seated Buddha Statue on the Main Wall of the Sixth Grotto of Bingling Temple

This paper examines the artistic characteristics of the seated Buddha statue on the main wall of the sixth grotto of the Bingling Temple Grottoes in Yongjing County, Gansu Province, which was created during the Northern Zhou period (557–581). As a significant Buddhist site located along the Silk Road, the sculptures and murals of the Bingling Temple Grottoes illustrate the stylistic evolution of Buddhist art across different historical periods. This paper presents a detailed analysis of the artistic style and carving techniques employed in the creation of the seated Buddha statue in Cave 6. The facial features, hairstyle, robe folds, gestural handprints, and backlight decoration of the statue are meticulously examined in order to gain insights into the artistic techniques used during the Northern Zhou period (557–581). The analysis of these artistic features posits the significant role of this seated Buddha in the Buddhist art of the Northern Zhou Dynasty and elucidates its function in the cultural exchange of the Silk Road. It offers a crucial lens through which to comprehend the artistic style of the Northern Zhou period. This research aspires to contribute to the understanding of Northern Zhou Buddhist art and its place in Chinese art history.