Western Thousand Buddha Cave 4: Bodhisattvas and Disciples

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty

These figures are depicted to the right of the Buddha in the rectangular mural above the doorway on the back (north) wall of the front chamber. A typical Tang dynasty (618–907) painting style is employed in this image, characterized by a robust body, accurate line drawing, and Bodhisattvas adorned with numerous ornate, detailed ornaments.
The figure on the left, closest to the Buddha, is a disciple wearing a blue and red monastic robe and displays mudras with both hands. This disciple’s pale skin stands out among the four figures on this side of the mural. The figure to the right is a Bodhisattva with joined palms. The Bodhisattva wears a headdress decorated with green jewels, numerous pieces of jewelry, and a green dhoti. A large lotus-shaped canopy with hanging tassels is suspended above the Bodhisattva’s head. The next figure is another disciple, also with joined palms. The final figure on the far right is a Bodhisattva, who is seated slightly higher than the others, and displays a mudra with one hand while holding a yellow jewel in the other. Wisps of cloud painted above these figures extend onto the ceiling of the cave.