Mogao Cave 220: Illustration of the Medicine Buddha Sutra - Musicians

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty

These figures are in the lower register of the mural on the north wall. Two groups of musicians face each other and play instruments while figures dance in the center. The musicians are seated close together on square carpets. All of them wear celestial garments with jeweled crowns and different styles of topknots. They have both light and dark complexions.
There are 13 musicians on the right side. They play the zither, flute, metallophone, reed instrument, lute, waist drum, clappers, and drums. There are 15 musicians on the left side, and they play a reed instrument, end-blown flute, transverse flute, conch, clappers, cymbals, harp, and drums. One figure in each group sings. All the musicians appear to be immersed in their music, with expressions of sincere devotion.