Mogao Cave 158: Illustration of the Mahaparinirvana Sutra - Disciples in Mourning

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty

Located on the far right side of the south wall in the main chamber, this scene from the Mahaparinirvana Sutra portrays the Buddha’s disciples mourning his passing into parinirvana. Mahakasyapa, arriving too late to say a final farewell, is depicted with both arms raised and his body leaning forward, supported by two other monks. His face is creased in an expression of deep sorrow, and his mouth is open wide, wailing in grief. The face is highlighted using the wash technique; the areas of shadow are inked in red and black, creating a vivid impression of grief. Mahakasyapa wears a monastic robe with the right shoulder exposed. His muscular torso and arms contrast sharply with his posture of despair.
The monk on the lower left leans forward, watchfully extending his arms in case Mahakasyapa falls, while another monk behind expresses grief with an upraised fist and a pained expression. On the lower right, Ananda kneels on the ground. His head is slightly tilted, with his right hand cupped to his ear and his left hand pressed against the ground. The four Bodhisattvas standing behind the disciples appear solemn but comparatively stoic.