Kizil Cave 189: Buddha Teaching the Dharma

CHINA, Xinjiang, Aksu

This mural is located on the right side of the front wall. The scenes are derived from the Buddhacarita, which states that after the Buddha attained enlightenment, “he advanced with lion step, pace by pace, while the earth shook withal, and as it shook, the blind naga was aroused from his watery slumber, was filled with joy, and his eyes were opened to the light.”
The standing Buddha is clad in a robe draped over the left shoulder and gazes forward with a calm expression. Walking, the left arm is bent at the elbow, and the right hand holds his robe. Six serpent-like nagas are entwined beneath the Buddha’s feet, and on each side are five Bodhisattvas holding parasols. The Bodhisattvas are of various complexions and wear crowns and flowing stoles. Many of the Bodhisattvas are no longer intact. A procession of male donors is depicted below, all with short hair and clad in collared robes with sashes around their waists.