Mogao Cave 14: Illustration of the Cintamanicakra Avalokitesvara Sutra

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty

Located at the center of the north wall in the main chamber, this Late Tang period (846–907) painting is based on the Cintamanicakra Avalokitesvara Sutra. Cintamanicakra Avalokitesvara is said to have a golden body with six arms, and to be in a constant state of reflection. The Bodhisattva’s head is bestowed with a jewel, and the headdress contains an image of Amitabha Buddha teaching the Dharma. The figure is seated in royal ease posture upon a lotus throne.
One of the Bodhisattva’s right hands is raised in a pensive posture, representing contemplation on compassion for sentient beings; in another is a wish-fulfilling jewel pearl, symbolizing the Bodhisattva’s ability to fulfill all wishes; and in the third are prayer beads, which serve as tools for liberating beings in the animal realm. The first left hand touches Mount Radiant, representing the achievement of an unmoved state; the second holds a lotus, for the purification of negativities; and the third holds a Dharma wheel, symbolizing the Bodhisattva’s skillful means of teaching. The six arms represent Avalokitesvara’s ability to travel throughout the six realms of existence. Above the Bodhisattva is a canopy, while a lotus pond is shown below. Numerous Bodhisattvas and the Four Heavenly Kings surround the figure.