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Mogao Cave 17: Avalokitesvara Bodhisattv
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Mogao Cave 17: Avalokitesvara Bodhisattv
CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty (618–907); Ink and color on silk; 60 x 17.7 cm; Guimet Museum of Asian Art, Paris, France
This 9th century painting depicts Avalokitesvara wearing a golden crown, standing on a blue lotus pedestal. The Bodhisattva has a round face, large ears, and long black hair that extends past the shoulders. A string ornament hangs in front of the chest, and a stole is draped over the arms. The right hand holds a red lotus. Blended red and purple colors give the long dhoti a distinctive appearance. The tasseled canopy above the Bodhisattva is barely visible behind the large nimbus. An inscription on the upper left pays homage to Avalokitesvara. |
