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Mogao Cave 17: Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva
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Mogao Cave 17: Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva
CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty (618–907);Ink and color on silk; 56.5 x 16.5 cm;British Museum, London, United Kingdom
This painting on a banner depicts Avalokitesvara standing on a lotus pedestal. The Bodhisattva wears a dhoti, jewelry, and a golden crown. The body appears strong and robust, with relatively long arms and perfectly straight legs leading down to large feet that point outward. A red and green stole is draped over the shoulders and around the arms. The lowered left hand carries a vase, and the right hand forms a mudra in front of the chest. The nimbus is partially covered by decorative lines at the top of the picture. The oval face of Avalokitesvara deviates from the prevailing style of Tang dynasty (618-907) art. |
