Kizil Cave 205: Prince of Kucha as Donor

CHINA, Xinjiang, Aksu

This mural was originally situated to the left of the doorway on the front wall of the main chamber. The mural is similar to the one found to the right of the doorway, which depicts the Prince of Kucha making an offering.
The Kuchean prince, in the center, wears a short outer robe with green trim and an open collar, revealing part of his embroidered inner garment. The cuffs of his robe have colorful decorative trim, and he wears a tippet and a belt around his waist. The prince carries a knife and a sword. Typical of the Kuchean style, his hair is tied with a ribbon at the back of his head, similar to that of the Kuchean king. A nimbus behind the prince emits star-like light, symbolizing his status as the crown prince. The woman on the left also has a nimbus, and wears a lapelled outer garment, similar in style to the prince’s robe, over a striped, narrow-sleeved shirt, and a colorful brocade skirt. She has a narrow waist and assumes a graceful pose. Two monks stand to the right of the prince.