Simsen Cave 44: Karma Stories

CHINA, Xinjiang, Aksu

These illustrations are on both sides of the barrel-vaulted ceiling in the main chamber of Cave 44. There are seven rows of diamond-shaped illustrations on each side. In each diamond, there are one or two scenes from the karma stories, including the story of Angulimalya and His Wrongdoings, the Boatman Rowing the Buddha Across the River, Makandika’s Daughter, the Monkey King Teaching the Five Hundred Sages, the Buddha Converting a Fierce Bull, the Cakravartin Offering Light to the Buddha, and the Five Hundred Merchants Seeking Treasures in the Sea. The bottom row of illustrations depicts Jataka tales, including the Jataka of the Dove’s Self-Sacrifice, and the Jataka of the Woodcutter and the Bear. A row of paired heavenly beings, with a total of 14 heavenly dancers in seven pairs depicted is at the very bottom of each side.
The colors of the illustrations are well preserved. The illustrations are painted with alternating red and mineral green colors, offering a warm atmosphere and reflecting the characteristics of Uighur paintings.