Yulin Cave 35: Diamond Realm Mandala

CHINA, Gansu, Guazhou; Five Dynasties

This mural is located on the left side of the front (east) wall within the main chamber. It depicts the Diamond Realm Mandala, which was a subject newly introduced during the Five Dynasties (907–960). It shows the Five Dhyani Buddhas in correspondence with the Five Wisdoms.
The Five Dhyani Buddhas wear headdresses and are drawn in the Vajrayana style. Their circular nimbuses and aureoles form an image of five wheels. Vairocana Buddha, one of the most significant Buddhas within Vajrayana Buddhism, is depicted in the center, seated upon a five-lion throne, which represents fearlessness. Aksobhya Buddha, at bottom left, is seated upon a five-elephant throne, which represents the immovable. Ratnasambhava Buddha is at the bottom right, seated upon a five-horse throne, which represents honor. Amitabha Buddha, seated on a five-garuda throne, which represents authority, is found in the top right. Finally, at the top left is Amoghasiddhi Buddha on a five-peacock throne, which represents purity and enlightenment. A large sun with a lion and an elephant on either side, along with two apsaras making offerings, is depicted at the very top. The mural is bordered by a row of the Thousand Buddha motif, except of the bottom, where there is a row of female donors.