Mogao Cave 334: Illustration of the Vimalakirti Sutra - Heavenly Being

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty

This figure is located on the right within the back (west) wall niche. The figure stands before Vimalakirti after outwitting the Buddha’s disciple, Sariputra, by interchanging their bodily forms. The heavenly being has a supple face with thin curved eyebrows and narrow eyes. The mouth and nose are petite and there are three lines on the neck. The hair is coiled into two high topknots. The figure wears a wide-sleeved garment with green trim. A long sash is tied at the waist and hangs down the front of the garment. The left hand waves a feather fan while the right is raised near the shoulder with a jewel in the palm. The heavenly being is slightly plump and stands in tribhanga posture. Simple shading is employed on the face and hands.