Kizil Cave 171: Upamana

CHINA, Xinjiang, Aksu

Located on the far right wall of the rear corridor, this painting depicts the story of the monk Upamana. Upamana once made an offering to Vipasyin Buddha while holding a grass torch in his hand, thereby preventing other deities from drawing closer so as to make their own offerings. As the Buddha was about to enter parinirvana, Upamana recalled this event and thus stepped aside to allow the deities to make their offerings.
The painting displays the moment when Upamana stands to the side of the Buddha’s feet in the illustration of his Parinirvana. Upamana appears barefoot and wears a blue monastic robe which bares his right shoulder. His cheek rests upon his right hand, and he appears to be in deep contemplation. Two rows of stupas are depicted to the right, above which is a colorful diamond lattice.