Decoding the animals at Longmen Grottoes

Updated: 2015-12-25

Here comes an unusual bird named Kalaviṅka, meaning a bird with fine voice. It originates in India and dwells on snow mountains or valleys. It has black feathers and can sing while still unhatched within its eggshell. Some say, its beautiful voice is a descriptor of the Buddha's voice. The relief outside the Pure Land Hall on the West Hill has Kalaviṅka patterns with a half man half bird look. The following pictures are about the Kalaviṅkas from Longmen Grottoes, Mogao Grottoes, and Dazu Rock Carvings.