Mogao Cave 17: Avalokitesvara Receiving an Offering

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Five Dynasties

In this painting from Mogao Cave 17, Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva is portrayed wearing a white robe, gold ornaments, and a headscarf draped over a headdress. Sitting in the relaxation posture on a square platform and resting the left foot on a lotus pedestal, the Bodhisattva holds a willow branch in the right hand. A patterned red ribbon hangs over the right arm. The inner ring of the nimbus is a vivid blue; the aureole is depicted with a simple red line. A canopy hangs above the Bodhisattva. On the right, a male figure in a black hat and white robe kneels on a carpet, holding a long-handled incense burner that emits a trail of black smoke. A smaller attendant stands on the right, holding up a fan. In the upper-right corner, a child with a flowing stole glides into the scene on a cloud, carrying a tray of offerings. Below, vajras rest on a lotus throne upon another cloud. The painting features strong lines and elegant blue, red, and white colors.