Mogao Cave 45: Illustration of the Amitayurdhyana Sutra - Sixteen Contemplations

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty

This mural is located on the left side of the north wall within the main chamber and dates to the High Tang period (712–756). In the story of Ajatasatru, the Sixteen Contemplations were taught to Queen Vaidehi by the Buddha during her imprisonment within the palace. They are illustrated in sequential order, beginning from the top left: contemplation on the sun, contemplation on water, contemplation on the land, contemplation on trees, contemplation on the water with eight attributes, contemplation on the pavilions and buildings, contemplation on the lotus throne, contemplation on a Buddha image, contemplation on Amitabha Buddha’s true body, contemplation on Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, contemplation on Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattva, and contemplation on the nine grades of rebirth. The scenes depict Queen Vaidehi in graceful bearing, engaged in each of the contemplations. She is adorned with a headdress and accompanied by one or two attendants. Mountains serve as a backdrop in each scene.