Mogao Cave 17: Illustration of the Sutra on the Descent of Maitreya

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty

This High Tang period (712–756) artwork from Mogao Cave 17, separated into over 30 fragments, illustrates scenes from the Sutra on the Descent of Maitreya. Bodhisattvas, Heavenly Kings, apsaras, and heavenly musicians are portrayed with High Tang hairstyles and attire. The depiction of brahmins breaking the platform, almost entirely preserved, shows King Sankha offering the platform made of the seven treasures to Maitreya Buddha, who then gives it to the brahmins. They dismantle the platform and share the treasures to demonstrate impermanence, inspiring King Sankha and his family to renounce. This work is similar to a fresco in Mogao Cave 445, except that, in this painting, the platform rests upon a wagon, an indication that at the time this work was created, large wooden structures were placed on vehicles for processions.