Mogao Cave 217: Illustration of the Amitayurdhyana Sutra

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty

This illustration of the Amitayurdhyana Sutra is painted on the north wall of the main chamber. Amitabha Buddha sits in full lotus position in the center, surrounded by four attendant Bodhisattvas. The Buddha has a round face and wears a red robe draped over the left shoulder. On platforms to the left and right of the central figures, Avalokitesvara and Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattvas sit in variations of relaxation posture, each accompanied by four Bodhisattvas.
Above the assembly are majestic symmetrical shrines and pavilions. Through multi-angled perspective, the focus of the viewer is consistently drawn towards Amitabha Buddha. Apsaras soar above the buildings, and below are heavenly musicians and a lotus pond from which lotus-born children emerge. Two heavenly dancers move gracefully on a platform in the center of the lotus pond, their stoles fluttering around them. The scene is bordered by floral patterns.
On the left beside the central scene is an illustration of Sakyamuni Buddha teaching the Dharma at Vulture Peak. The Buddhas of the Ten Directions emerge from the light that radiates from the urna between the Buddha’s eyebrows. Below is an illustration of the story of Ajatasatru, and to the right of the central scene is an illustration of the Sixteen Contemplations.