Mogao Cave 194: Niche Sculptures

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty

Located within and beside the niche in the back (west) wall of the main chamber, the nine sculptures consist of a seated Buddha, two disciples, two Bodhisattvas, two Heavenly Kings, and two warriors. Seated with legs pendent on a throne, the Buddha has a large usnisa, a round face, and broad shoulders. He wears a green robe with floral-patterned hems. The left hand rests on the knee, while the right is raised near the chest.
The two Bodhisattvas have high topknots and full faces. They wear stoles and long lower garments, but are not decorated with necklaces, bracelets, or armlets. Both figures stand gracefully in tribhanga posture. The two Heavenly Kings wear armor. One heavenly king has a high topknot, thick eyebrows, narrow eyes, and a smile, while the other wears a helmet and has a fierce expression. The two warriors outside the niche have bare chests and prominent muscles.