Mogao Cave 445: Illustration of the Maitreya Sutras

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty

This illustration is situated on the north wall of the main chamber. Tusita Heaven is depicted in the upper register, based on the Sutra on the Ascent of Maitreya. In the lower register and occupying most of the mural is the illustration of the Sutra on the Descent of Maitreya, which focuses on the three assemblies of Maitreya Buddha.
Maitreya Buddha is seated with legs pendent in the center of the lower register. A jeweled canopy hangs above him and an altar with a mountain censer is situated in front. He is flanked by disciples, Bodhisattvas, and heavenly beings, representing the first assembly after the rebirth of Maitreya. On each side of the first assembly are similar images of Maitreya, disciples, and Bodhisattvas, representing the second and third assemblies. Below the altar are images of the seven treasures of a cakravartin and to its left and right are depictions of the tonsuring of King Sankha and Maitreya’s mother. Below these depictions are scenes from the sutra, including a wedding, a raksasa sweeping dust, brahmins tearing down the treasure tower, clothes growing on trees, and an alms procession of Maitreya and his disciples. More scenes are depicted above the three assemblies, including Mahakasyapa’s meditation cave, the seven harvests from one plowing, and others. The mural is detailed, orderly, and compact.