A recent drop in water levels at Yutan Reservoir in Dazu District of Chongqing Municipality, southwest China, has revealed a newly discovered set of Song Dynasty (960-1279) cliffside carvings, offering fresh insight into ancient Chinese religious art.

The carvings were found on a rock face measuring approximately three meters high and six meters wide, with six individual niches from left to right, containing a total of 27 statues. Experts noted that the second through fourth niches are especially significant due to their size and exceptional state of preservation.

"Since early this spring, rainfall in Dazu District has been lower than usual. Water levels in the Yutan Reservoir have continued to fall, revealing these long-submerged carvings," said Deng Qibing, a researcher at the Dazu Rock Carvings Research Institute.

According to researchers, the newly revealed carvings include religious and folk themes such as Water-Moon Avalokitesvara (shuiyue guanyin) and the Shakyamuni preaching scene, all regarded as typical of Song Dynasty Buddhist rock art.

The sculptures also demonstrate meticulous craftsmanship and incorporate secular imagery, such as kneeling pilgrims, standing figures, and characters carrying shoulder poles, reflecting the vivid blend of folk life and Buddhist belief during the Song Dynasty.

"These themes were very prevalent in Song Dynasty Buddhist art in Dazu. This discovery not only enriches the types of subjects found in Dazu stone carvings but also holds important value in studying the evolution of Water-Moon Avalokitesvara and Hariti figures in the Bashu region (encompassing Sichuan Province and Chongqing Municipality)," said Deng.

Local cultural heritage authorities have already completed preliminary mapping and digital imaging of the site. Further efforts will focus on preservation and academic research to ensure the protection and understanding of these underwater treasures freshly brought to light.