Encyclopedia of Buddhist Arts

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Vols：Caves

Page：848

Mogao Cave 16: Ceiling

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Western Xia period (1032–1227)
A gorgeous painted relief of a golden phoenix is featured in the center of the main chamber’s ceiling. The phoenix spreads its wings and the tail curls around to form a circle. The green background is enclosed within a circular border of stylized, curling lotus petals. Surrounding this and filling the rectangular panel is a bright red background with golden dragons in each of the four corners. An outer decorative motif frames the work in subdued colors to emphasize the inner image.

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