Yulin Cave 20: Illustration of the Sutra on the Questions of Visesa Cinti Brahma

CHINA, Gansu, Guazhou; Five Dynasties

This sutra illustration is located on the north wall of the main chamber. The image depicts Sakyamuni Buddha answering questions put forth by Brahmas and Bodhisattvas, as described in the Sutra on the Questions of Visesa Cinti Brahma.
A courtyard, on the upper left of the illustration, is situated in the clouds with a Bodhisattva and attendant inside. A cartouche beside the courtyard reads, “Pay homage to Maitreya, when he descends from Tusita Heaven.” Representing the dwelling place of Maitreya Bodhisattva in Tusita Heaven, a great heavenly palace is depicted in the lower central section of the mural. A cloud between the courtyard and palace supports Brahma and two attendants. The cartouche next to the palace states, “At that time, Brahma comes to the assembly.”