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Mogao Cave 17: Monk
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Mogao Cave 17: Monk
CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty (618–907);Line drawing on paper; 46 x 30 cm;British Museum, London, United Kingdom
This late 9th or early 10th century drawing depicts a calm, solemn monk. Wearing a monastic robe, he sits upon a mat, forming the dhyana (meditation) mudra with both hands. His bag and prayer beads hang from a tree on the right, while his monastic shoes and a vase are positioned beside the mat. The drawing is composed of black lines of varying thicknesses. The face has detailed features, and the folds on the robe give the impression of substantiality and weight. The picture is representative of several other line drawings found in Mogao Cave 17. |
