 |
Kumtura Cave 63: Harmony Among Animals
|
| |
|
Kumtura Cave 63: Harmony Among Animals
CHINA, Xinjiang, Aksu; 7th–8th century
This illustration, from the Dharmagupta Vinaya, is located on the north side of the barrel-vaulted ceiling in the main chamber. It depicts a story wherein an elephant, monkey, and a bird have become good friends and travel together. The elephant carries the monkey, who carries the bird along with a hare under his arm. A tree, blue flowers, birds, and a climbing monkey is depicted in the background. The painting is similar to one found in the Kizil Caves, except for the appearance of a hare in this cave. A description about the harmony among these four animals is found in a Dunhuang manuscript. |
