Stone Carvings at Zhaowang Temple

Stone Carvings at Zhaowang Temple

The stone carvings at Zhaowang Temple are a protected cultural heritage site of Hebei Province.

Stone Carvings at Zhaowang Temple

The stone carvings at Zhaowang Temple are located on a cliff approximately 800 meters southeast of Nanchakou Village, Taoquan Township, Cixian County. Originally, there was a Zhaowang Temple situated opposite the cliff, hence the name “Stone Carvings at Zhaowang Temple.” Research indicates that these carvings were created during the Sui Dynasty. The cliff faces east and features seven niches— one large niche and six smaller ones—housing a total of 25 statues. The large niche is located in the middle section of the cliff, standing nearly 20 meters high, with a pointed arch lintel and decorative columns along the edges. Inside, it is carved with one Buddha, two disciples, and other figures. To the south of the large niche, there are three small niches arranged vertically, while to the north, there is one small niche above and two small niches arranged side by side below. The various niches contain carvings of five figures including one Buddha, two disciples, and two bodhisattvas, as well as three figures consisting of a Buddha and disciples. Inscriptions found in niche No. 6 document the carving of the grottoes during the Kaihuang era of the Sui Dynasty. Some of the statues feature herringbone grooves, indicating that halls were originally built around the carvings. These stone carvings are vivid in expression, rich in the character of their time, and are rare among dated stone carvings in southern Hebei. They are now a key cultural relic protection unit of Hebei Province.

Further Reading:

· Fourth Batch of Protected Cultural Heritage Sites of Hebei Province