Eastern Thousand Buddha Cave 7: Western Pure Land

CHINA, Gansu, Guazhou; Western Xia period

This illustration is located on the south wall of the cave. Unfortunately, it has suffered from wear and damage, and its details are somewhat difficult to discern. Nevertheless, it is considered to be among the best works at this cave site, and has also provided scholars with valuable information about ancient architectural styles.
The buildings depicted are in the style of imperial architecture. Together, they form an enclosed courtyard filled with numerous figures. The buildings have upturned eaves, and are linked by covered walkways. Pavilions can be discerned on the left and right sides of the illustration, decorated with flames on their roofs. In the center of the upper register, a Buddha and two Bodhisattvas sit in front of a large two-story palace. Flames seem to rise upwards from the Buddha’s nimbus. Surrounding these three main figures are numerous heavenly beings with round nimbuses. Many other figures can be made out in the crowd filling the courtyard.