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Mogao Cave 17: Avalokitesvara Holding a Willow Branch
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Mogao Cave 17: Avalokitesvara Holding a Willow Branch
CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang;Northern Song dynasty (960–1127); Ink and color on linen; 162.5 x 52.5 cm; Guimet Museum of Asian Art, Paris, France
This painting, discovered in Mogao Cave 17, dates from the second half of the 10th century. Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva wears a three-leaf crown with a Buddha image in the center. The nimbus is filled with curved, colorful lines. A long beaded ornament hangs from a large ruby necklace in the center of the chest. The arms and shoulders are encircled by a black and yellow stole. The layered dhoti is secured with a white sash. A willow branch is held in the right hand while the lowered left hand holds the neck of a vase. Above the left shoulder of the Bodhisattva, a young boy descends from the sky on clouds. |
