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| Bamiyan East Buddha Niche: Astrological Signs |
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Bamiyan East Buddha Niche: Astrological Signs
AFGHANISTAN, Bamiyan; circa mid to late 6th century |
This mural was once located on the ceiling of the East Buddha Niche but was destroyed in 2001 by the Taliban. The main feature was a depiction of Surya, the Sun Deity. The deity was common to both Hinduism and Buddhism.
Surya was portrayed as standing upright in a two-wheeled chariot, drawn forth by four white winged horses. With a nimbus around his head, the deity was found standing inside a sun disc with a flame pattern. Above Surya was Vayu, the Wind Deity with a garuda below. Lastly, three warriors with wings and nimbuses stood on the chariot, each holding a lancet or shield. These figures were drawn on the ceiling of the niche in order to function as astrological signs. The style is characteristic of the Sassanid Empire (circa 224–651). |
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