Mogao Cave 257: Bodhisattva in Contemplation

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Northern Wei dynasty

This Bodhisattva is located within the upper niche on the south side of the central pillar. A petal-shaped nimbus and aureole are painted on the back wall of the niche, and sculpted decorative curtains hang from the eaves. The Bodhisattva has a round face, full cheeks, long, fine eyebrows, and elongated earlobes. Smiling slightly, the figure gazes downwards serenely. The Bodhisattva wears a headdress, a stole, a wide necklace, and a long lower garment that hangs in curved folds over the legs. The Bodhisattva’s feet are bare; the left foot rests on the ground while the right ankle is placed on the left knee, with the sole of the foot facing upwards. The left hand rests on the ankle, and the fingertips of the right hand gently touch the right cheek in a contemplative pose.