Yulin Cave 3: Diamond Realm Mandala - Bodhisattva Making an Offering

CHINA, Gansu, Guazhou; Western Xia period

This image located on the left side of the north wall in the bottom left register of the Diamond Realm Mandala depicts a Bodhisattva who stands within a blue circle. The Bodhisattva wears a headdress and a garland of flowers. One hand grasps a willow branch above the head while the other is held with the palm outstretched, which appears to be emanating a thin black line. The Bodhisattva appears to be dancing. The upper torso and the feet are both bare. Overall, this image has a strong South Asian influence.
A willow tree stands in a vase beside the Bodhisattva, with branches arranged over the figure’s head. Because of this detail, the image is also known as the “Bodhisattva Beneath the Tree.”