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Yulin Cave 3: Samantabhadra Bodhisattva and Attendants
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Yulin Cave 3: Samantabhadra Bodhisattva and Attendants
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Yulin Cave 3: Samantabhadra Bodhisattva and Attendants
CHINA, Gansu, Guazhou; Western Xia period (1032–1227)
This mural is located on the left side of the front (west) wall, and is paired with the illustration of Manjusri Bodhisattva and Attendants on the right side. Samantabhadra Bodhisattva is seated upon a lotus throne and rides a six-tusked white elephant as lotus flowers bloom beneath its feet. Samantabhadra is escorted by an entourage that includes Bodhisattvas, Arhats, and Heavenly Kings. An image of Master Xuanzang 's Journey to Obtain the Sutras appears to the left of Samantabhadra. The scenery gives an impression of seclusion and beauty. Layers of soaring peaks ascend into the landscape beyond the retinue. Among the peaks are towers and thatched cottages enclosed within bamboo fences.
The artist of this mural employed different types of lines in order to create differing effects among the figures and shapes. The mountains are drawn with thick, hazy lines that portray the sheer and imposing manner of the peaks. Clouds and mist are depicted with tight swirls, packed together layer upon layer. Finally, the figures are created using the iron wire " painting technique. Formed with neat |
