Yulin Cave 29: Illustration of the Medicine Buddha Sutra

CHINA, Gansu, Guazhou; Western Xia period

This mural is located on the left side of the east wall and illustrates a scene from the Medicine Buddha Sutra. It depicts a three-bay-wide hall built upon a platform with a protruding central bay. The Medicine Buddha sits in full lotus position upon a lotus throne at the back of the central bay, surrounded by a round mandorla which emits rays of light. One hand holds an alms bowl while the other rests upon the knee. Standing on either side and facing the Buddha are the Suryaprabha Bodhisattva and Candraprabha Bodhisattva, accompanied by disciples. The Bodhisattvas wear earrings and headdresses decorated with ribbons. Both Bodhisattvas have rounded faces, long eyebrows, and delicate features, characteristic of the artistic style of the late Western Xia period (1032–1227). The disciples that accompany the Bodhisattvas have a variety of postures and expressions.
A patch of grass with a large gathering of Bodhisattvas, disciples, and heavenly beings is found in front of the platform. Those within the crowd either sit or stand. A small pond containing children seated upon lotus flowers is depicted at the center in the foreground.