Eastern Thousand Buddha Cave 7: Seated Bodhisattva

CHINA, Gansu, Guazhou; Western Xia period

This Bodhisattva sits in full lotus position upon a lotus throne. An octagonal raised platform decorated with different patterns including tortoiseshells, honeysuckles, and seashells supports the throne.
The Bodhisattva has a round face, curved eyebrows, and partially closed eyes. The mouth and lips are small, with a hint of a mustache and goatee. The Bodhisattva wears an elaborate headdress, neck and arm ornaments, a shawl, a long draped stole, and a long, lower garment girdled at the waist. The upper torso is partially bare, displaying a slender physique. The Bodhisattva holds a jewel at chest level in one hand, while the other hand is held with the palms facing upwards. A circular nimbus and an aureole surrounded by wisps of cloud are depicted behind the Bodhisattva. A small canopy with hanging ornaments is painted above the nimbus. Behind the central figure, there is a strip of triangular patterning. Two heavenly beings, each seated in full lotus position with joined palms, can be seen in the upper corners of the mural.