Yulin Cave 2: Buddha Teaching the Dharma

CHINA, Gansu, Guazhou; Western Xia period

Within this cave there is a total of eight illustrations of the Buddha teaching the Dharma. These particular images are located on the back (east) wall and two side walls.
All eight murals depict a central Buddha, flanked by Manjusri and Samantabhadra Bodhisattvas, teaching the Dharma to a group of figures. The Buddha sits in full lotus position upon an octagonal throne. Manjusri Bodhisattva sits on the right and holds a ruyi (wish-fulfilling talisman), while Samantabhadra sits on the left and holds a lotus. Both Bodhisattvas wear headdresses, long garments, and jewelry. They are seated upon lotus thrones elevated on square platforms.
Among the figures behind the Buddha and Bodhisattvas are representative beings from the Eight Classes of Dharma Protectors. They can be identified by their headdresses as asura, naga, garuda, gandharva, kinnara, mahoraga, and yaksa. In the foreground are heavenly beings and disciples. The main color employed in these murals is mineral green, accentuated with bright red, blue, and orange.