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Bamiyan East Buddha Niche: Astrological Signs
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Bamiyan East Buddha Niche: Astrological Signs
AFGHANISTAN, Bamiyan; circa mid to late 6th century
This mural was once located on the ceiling of the East Buddha Niche but was destroyed in 2001 by the Taliban. The main feature was a depiction of Surya, the Sun Deity. The deity was common to both Hinduism and Buddhism.
Surya was portrayed as standing upright in a two-wheeled chariot, drawn forth by four white winged horses. With a nimbus around his head, the deity was found standing inside a sun disc with a flame pattern. Above Surya was Vayu, the Wind Deity with a garuda below. Lastly, three warriors with wings and nimbuses stood on the chariot, each holding a lancet or shield. These figures were drawn on the ceiling of the niche in order to function as astrological signs. The style is characteristic of the Sassanid Empire (circa 224–651). |
