Bezeklik Cave 33: Illustration of the Mahaparinirvana Sutra - Brahmins Playing Instruments

CHINA, Xinjiang, Turpan

Bezeklik Cave 33 is a large, rectangular cave with a barrel-vaulted ceiling. On the north and south walls are paintings of Jataka tales and the Life of the Buddha. On the back (west) wall is a combination of sculptures and paintings illustrating a scene from the Mahaparinirvana Sutra. This painting was originally located on the upper section of the east wall, and was part of the illustration of the Mahaparinirvana Sutra. The image depicts the brahmins rejoicing after hearing that the Buddha has entered parinirvana. They play instruments including a flute, pipa, cymbals, reed instrument, and drum. The images are vivid, with clear facial features and expressions.
The painting is colorful, and the terracotta-colored background is decorated with painted green gems. The lines in this image are well-defined, demonstrating the excellent painting skills of the artist.