Longshan Temple Main Hall: Naga King Requesting Dharma Teaching

TAIWAN, Taipei

This mural in the main hall of Longshan Temple was painted by Cai Longjin between 1995 and 2005. Sakyamuni Buddha is shown surrounded by his disciples, Bodhisattvas, heavenly beings and Dharma protectors. The Naga King is on the right at the bottom of the image, joining his palms and requesting a teaching.
The Buddha has an urna between his eyebrows and a red usnisa. He sits in full lotus position on a lotus throne beneath a canopy.The right hand is raised, and forms the vitarka (teaching) mudra. The left hand cradles a wish-fulfilling jewel. Flame patterns surround the petal-shaped mandorla of the Buddha. The disciples, wearing wide-sleeved robes with crossed collars, stand with their palms joined in reverence. Avalokitesvara is on the right below the Buddha’s lotus throne, wearing a white robe draped over the top of a headdress. A sense of depth is created by the rocks and clouds in the background. Smooth lines, pale pastel colors, and the gentle appearances of the figures result in an elegant image.