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Changma Cave 4: Standing Bodhisattva
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Changma Cave 4: Standing Bodhisattva
CHINA, Gansu, Yumen; Song dynasty (960-1279)
This mural is located on the west wall of Cave 4. The Bodhisattva stands in partial profile, holding a vase full of flowers. The figure’s hair is arranged high upon the head beneath a complex headdress. The face is round with elongated earlobes, fine eyebrows, and a small amount of facial hair. The Bodhisattva wears an inner robe and a draped outer robe, in addition to ornaments such as long earrings, bracelets, and two necklaces of different lengths.
The outline of the figure is minimal and the coloration is light, which is in stark contrast to the deep colors of the nimbus behind the Bodhisattva’s head. Peonies grow on twisted branches to either side of the figure. |
