Mogao Cave 259: Standing Bodhisattvas

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Northern Wei dynasty

These Bodhisattvas stand on both sides of the large niche in the half-pillar in front of the back (west) wall. The Bodhisattva on the left wears a crown, earrings, a wide necklace, and other ornaments. The gentle face has fine eyebrows, large eyes, a small nose, and a slight smile. The long hair falls down the back. The left hand is raised to the chest while the right arm, damaged below the elbow, is lowered by the side of the body. Standing barefoot, leaning slightly to one side, the Bodhisattva wears a stole around the arms and a long green lower garment. The right foot is missing.
The Bodhisattva on the right side of the niche also wears a crown and has long hair. The face has suffered some damage, but certain features are still discernible, including slender eyes, a long nose, and a faint smile. The figure stands upright and wears a long lower garment.