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Kumtura Cave 43: Maitreya BodhisattvaTeaching the Dharma
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Kumtura Cave 43: Maitreya BodhisattvaTeaching the Dharma
CHINA, Xinjiang, Aksu; 7th–8th century
This painting is located on the front (east) wall above the doorway within the main chamber. Maitreya Bodhisattva is depicted teaching the Dharma in Tusita Heaven. Although the mural is damaged on the left side, the right shows 12 heavenly beings sitting in three rows facing Maitreya. They wear headdresses, ornaments, and stoles over their arms, and their dhotis are tied with sashes at the waist. Some hold platters of food in offering, while others join their palms in praise of the Dharma. A woman in Kuchean dress, in front of Maitreya, dances gracefully as an offering to the Bodhisattva. |
