Kizil Cave 8: Apsaras

CHINA, Xinjiang, Aksu

These apsaras adorn the semicircular wall above the front entrance of the main chamber. The principal image is damaged; only the illustrations of a canopy, two apsaras on each side, and two Bodhisattvas remain in place. All of the apsaras have nimbuses and wear jeweled crowns and necklaces. They wear flowing stoles on the upper body and long lower garments. Two apsaras, one above the other, are depicted on the left. One holds a garland with both hands and the other holds jewelry in the left palm, while the right hand is missing. There is a similar arrangement of two apsaras on the right, one above the other. One carries a tray in the left hand and jewelry in the right; the other is playing a pipa. The apsaras are brightly colored in green, blue, and white, which serve as the main colors of the mural.