Kizil Cave 199: Jatakas

CHINA, Xinjiang, Aksu

This mural was originally situated near the front of the corridor on the outer wall. In the style of a horizontal scroll painting, the mural includes a series of scenes representing Jataka tales; however, most detail is no longer discernible. The upper left of this image contains flowers and trees, among which stand two pheasants. A curved roof is depicted below the birds, and inside a brahmin sits with legs crossed at the ankles. Two brahmins are outside the hut; one kneels on one knee facing the hut, while the other steps toward a pool of green water. Five women bathe within the pool, while above them, four apsaras dance in the sky. A man and woman stand on the right side of the pool. The man appears to be the same brahmin who stepped toward the pool. He raises his right hand and stands with his legs crossed. The woman wears a flowing stole and holds a rope.