Encyclopedia of Buddhist Arts

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Vols：Caves

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Mogao Caves: Animals as Dharma Protectors

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty (618–907); Clay;H: 90 cm; State Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg, Russia
The sculptures are thought to have been located in Mogao Cave 321. While the two Dharma Protectors are canine in appearance, they have hybrid characteristics, such as lion-like manes and forelegs. They squat on guard with ears raised alertly, looking to the right and left respectively. Though the mouth of one is open and the other closed, both have visibly sharp teeth.

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