Mogao Cave 231: Illustration of the Maitreya Sutras

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty

This mural is situated on the right side of the north wall within the main chamber. The upper register depicts the Sutra on the Ascent of Maitreya. In the center is a double-eave main hall in which Maitreya Bodhisattva is seated with legs crossed at the ankles on a lion throne. Bodhisattvas and heavenly beings listen to his teaching from within the courtyard. The main hall is connected by bridges to side pavilions, where there are more Bodhisattvas and heavenly musicians.
The lower register depicts the Sutra on the Descent of Maitreya. In the center is Maitreya Buddha seated with legs pendent upon a Sumeru throne with a tall backrest. A canopy hangs above the Buddha, and in front of him is an incense burner placed on an altar. Maitreya is flanked by Lotus Grove Bodhisattva and Great Wonderful Appearance Bodhisattva, and surrounded by more Bodhisattvas and the Eight Classes of Dharma Protectors. This is a standard representation of the first assembly of Maitreya Buddha.
Below the scene of the first assembly are images of King Sankha leading his officials to be tonsured and brahmins tearing down the treasure platform. On both sides are images of Maitreya Buddha seated with legs pendent and surrounded by disciples and Bodhisattvas. These represent the second and third assemblies. Below the mural are four panel depicting scenes from the sutra, including Maitreya’s birth, his return to the city, a marriage ceremony, and farm harvests.