Kizil Cave 205: Life of the Buddha - Cremation

CHINA, Xinjiang, Aksu

This mural was originally situated on the outer wall of the rear corridor. According to the Mulasarvastivada Vinaya-Vastu, after the Buddha’s parinirvana, his body was wrapped in thin silk, and then decorated with 500 wonderful pieces of clothing above and beneath his body. The iron casket was covered in balmy oils and then burned with fragrant logs.
The Buddha reclines in a casket adorned with a naga head and intricate decorative patterns. Flames are depicted on top of the casket, representing the cremation of the body. Ananda, to the left, is positioned to close the casket, while two heavenly beings appear above it. One is dark-skinned and holds a tray of flowers in offering, and the other is light-skinned and joins palms. A heavenly being, at the bottom of the mural, kneels on one knee and extends his arms in a sorrowful manner. To the right, three of the Buddha’s disciples stand or kneel with joined palms and gaze at the casket in silent mourning. A heavenly being who makes offerings of bead strings and wears a jeweled crown is seen above the disciples.