Mogao Cave 320: Ceiling

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty

In the center of the truncated pyramidal ceiling is a square caisson embellished with a floral medallion. The sunken panel is framed by four square border patterns. The first contains alternating semicircular floral clusters; the second has a diamond-shaped pattern adorned with persimmon flowers; the third has alternating circular floral clusters and trefoil floral designs; and the last has layers of flowers, petals, pennants, and chimes, which together form a kind of valance pattern. The four ceiling slopes are covered with the Thousand Buddhas.