Cliff Carvings on Changnian Slope

Cliff Carvings on Changnian Slope

The Cliff Carvings on Changnian Slope are a cultural relic protection unit of Suining City.

Cliff Carvings on Changnian Slope

Age: Tang Dynasty

Category: Grotto Temples and Rock Carvings

Announcement Date: August 15, 2012

Address: Yanhe Village, Changli Township, Anju District

Introduction: The Cliff Carvings on Changnian Slope are situated on Changnian Slope in Yanhe Village, Changli Township. They were initially constructed during the Tang Dynasty and are spread across a 30-meter-long and 5-meter-high cliff surface, totaling six niches with several hundred statues. The niches mainly feature flat-roofed, open rectangular designs of varying depths and sizes. A few have relief carvings on their lintels and doorframes. Preliminary stylistic and carving technique analysis suggests that these are works from the late Tang Dynasty.

Among them, Niche 3 contains a central Buddha flanked by two Bodhisattvas and two disciples, with a total of 90 statues. The figures are diverse in expression, vividly rendered, exquisitely lined, rich in content, and exhibit strong local characteristics.

Niche 4 is a scripture transformation story niche, featuring a main image of one Buddha, two Bodhisattvas, and surrounding carvings of various figures and animals. The rear wall is engraved with pavilions and a precious pearl tower. The human figures, in particular, are uniquely shaped, lively, and lifelike, numbering a total of 56 statues.

These carvings, with their simple yet dignified and exquisite forms, are largely well-preserved and possess significant artistic value as well as extremely high cultural relic value.