Tiantishan Grotto 4: Standing Bodhisattva

CHINA, Gansu, Wuwei; Northern Liang Kingdom

This mural was originally found to the left of the lower niche on the right side of Grotto 4’s central pillar. Unfortunately, all the statues within the cave have been destroyed, and only portions of murals remain on the walls.
The Bodhisattva depicted in this mural has thin eyes, a prominent nose, and earrings, with features resembling those of a Central Asian. The figure wears a necklace along with a flowing stole that winds its way around the body. A nimbus is visible around the head. The left hand is raised while the right holds a vase to the side. The surface of the mural is rough and uneven, which suggests the artist used a Central Asian painting style. A dark ink was used to outline the body, while a rustic color was washed over the entire surface, giving the artwork more volume.