In brief
The sculpture and mural organize the perception of the rock space.
Useful to know
The Golden Temple of Dambulla in Sri Lanka includes five cave shrines with statues and murals. The place has a long history of pilgrimage, viewed by UNESCO as an important part of its meaning. [1]
In a cave environment, the wall is not a neutral background: images and sculptures change the way the interior space is read. Consider the relationship between the natural rock surface and the added artistic elements. Don't assume all images are simultaneously created. The continued use of the sanctuary suggests a history with different stages, which should differ in description.
Sources
For further detail and to check the information: