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Mogao Cave 148: Illustration of the Amitayurdhyana Sutra
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Mogao Cave 148: Illustration of the Amitayurdhyana Sutra
CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty (618–907)
This well-preserved mural on the right side of the front (east) wall of the main chamber dates from the High Tang period (712–756). Idyllic palaces and pavilions are depicted rising above a lotus pond in Amitabha Buddha’s Pure Land. The central palace in the upper register is the largest building; the two wings on either side are in precise symmetry. On a platform in front of the central palace, Amitabha Buddha, Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, and Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattva sit on lotus thrones, surrounded by a multitude of Bodhisattvas. At the top of the mural, Buddhas, disciples, Bodhisattvas, and pagodas rise upon trails of clouds, a depiction of the manifested assembly described in the Amitayurdhyana Sutra.
Five small platforms connected by rainbow bridges are arrayed in front of the central platform where Amitabha is seated. Two heavenly beings dance ecstatically on the middle platform, while musicians play instruments on either side. In front of these are two larger platforms upon which are seated Buddhas with attendant Bodhisattvas. On either side of the mural are panels illustrating the story of Ajatasatru and the Sixteen Contemplations. |
