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Mogao Cave 148: Illustration of the Mahaparinirvana Sutra - Introductory Chapter
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Mogao Cave 148: Illustration of the Mahaparinirvana Sutra - Introductory Chapter
CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty (618–907)
Located on the right side of the south wall within the main chamber, this scene is part of a large illustration of the Mahaparinirvana Sutra produced during the High Tang period (712–756). The “Introductory Chapter” describes how Sakyamuni Buddha, while giving a teaching in the city of Kushinagar, announced that he would soon enter parinirvana, and invited the throng to ask him some final questions in regards to the Dharma. Upon hearing this, numerous devotees rushed up to the Buddha, begging him not to leave the world.
Sakyamuni Buddha is seen seated on a lotus throne in the center of the image, his right hand forming the vitarka (teaching) mudra and his left hand resting on his knee. His urna emits radiant light, and the rays manifest into miniature Buddhas in the sky above. This expresses the all-pervading Buddha nature that prevails throughout the universe. Surrounding Sakyamuni Buddha are Ocean of Virtue Bodhisattva, Aksayamati Bodhisattva, and disciples. At the bottom of the scene, the King and Queen of Vaishali lead a throng of monks, nuns, and lay devotees to make offerings to the Buddha. |
