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Mogao Cave 45: Illustration of the Lotus Sutra - Universal Gateway Chapter - Thirty-Three Manifestations
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Mogao Cave 45: Illustration of the Lotus Sutra - Universal Gateway Chapter - Thirty-Three Manifestations
CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty (618–907)
This detail is on the left side of mural located on the south wall in the main chamber. According to the “Universal Gateway Chapter” of the Lotus Sutra, the Thirty-Three Manifestations of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva are divided into 19 Dharma teachings to teach individuals according to their abilities and needs. Here, Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva appears as Mahesvara, a Heavenly General, the Heavenly King Vaisravana, a young man, a young woman, a monk, a nun, a prince, a layman, and a laywoman. These manifestations are painted amid mountains and trees, and beside each image is a descriptive cartouche. |
