Kizil Cave 163: Life of the Buddha - Teaching the Gandharva King

CHINA, Xinjiang, Aksu

This painting is located on the far left end of the rear corridor. According to the Mulasarvastivada Vinaya-Vastu, the Gandharva King was a music deity. Being very arrogant and conceited, he believed his musical skill was superior to everyone else’s. The Buddha disguised himself as a music deity and ascended to heaven to hold a musical contest with the Gandharva King. They each played a harp and the Buddha won. The Gandharva King then realized his conceit and took refuge in the Buddha.
Disguised as a music deity, the Buddha is depicted on the left side of the painting. He wears a jeweled crown with a silken stole around his body. He stands with legs crossed and his arm placed on the Gandharva King’s shoulder. The King wears a headdress and many other ornaments. He holds a harp under his arm, while his hands appear to pluck the strings.