Mogao Cave 12: Illustration of the Amitayurdhyana Sutra

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty

This illustration of the Amitayurdhyana Sutra from the Late Tang period (846–907) is located in the center of the south wall within the main chamber. At the top of the illustration are palace buildings over a pond, with Buddhas and Bodhisattvas riding on clouds in the sky above. In the middle register, Amitabha Buddha is seated in the center surrounded by Bodhisattvas. Canopies hang above the Buddha and two attendant Bodhisattvas, while an altar with an incense burner is set before them. Just below are two rows of heavenly musicians with a dancer in the center. On either side of the Buddha, Bodhisattvas make offerings and listen to the Dharma. At the bottom of the mural is a row of raised platforms. The central platform contains a painted banner and kalavinka bird, while the side platforms display seated Buddhas surrounded by Bodhisattvas. Beneath the illustration is a series of panels depicting the story of Ajatasatru and the Sixteen Contemplations.