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Kizil Cave 189: Life of the Buddha - First Turning of the Dharma Wheel
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Kizil Cave 189: Life of the Buddha - First Turning of the Dharma Wheel
CHINA, Xinjiang, Aksu; circa 6th–7th century
This mural is painted on the left wall of the main chamber and illustrates a scene as described in the Abhiniskramana Sutra. Seated beneath the Bodhi tree, the Buddha teaches five monks at the Deer Park in Varanasi. He wears a monastic robe, and appears composed and solemn with downcast eyes. The Buddha is seated in full lotus position upon a high throne. The pair of crouching deer painted on the lower part of the throne symbolize the location. Five monks of different complexions listen attentively to the Buddha’s teaching. Some of them look up at the Buddha while the other ones contemplate with their heads lowered. |
