Mogao Cave 154: Illustration of the Golden Light Sutra

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty

This mural extends from the south wall onto the right side of the front (east) wall within the main chamber. It dates from the Mid-Tang period (756–846), but follows the general layout of illustrations of the Golden Light Sutra from the High Tang period (712–756), with the Golden Light Assembly in the middle, and panels on both sides depicting scenes from the individual chapters.
The Buddha sits in full lotus position on a lotus throne in the center of the mural. He has a round face, wears a red ocher robe, and forms the Dharmacakra (Dharma wheel) mudra with both hands. An incense burner is placed on an altar below the Buddha, and a jeweled canopy hangs above him. The Buddha is surrounded by Bodhisattvas, disciples, heavenly beings, and the Eight Classes of Dharma Protectors. Above the assembly are magnificent buildings and corridors, and in the lower register are scenes from different chapters of the sutra. To the right and left are panels which depict the “Chapter on Prince Mahasattva Offering his Body to the Tigress” and the “Chapter on Jalavahana.” Much of the space within the panels is filled with landscape scenes.