Mogao Cave 248: Buddha Triad

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Northern Wei dynasty

These sculptures are located within the arched niche in the east side of the central pillar. The niche lintel is decorated with a colorful flame pattern, and nagas frame the niche opening, with a head on each side. The Buddha is surrounded by an oval nimbus and mandorla, and has tightly curled hair, a usnisa, elongated earlobes, a wide forehead, and a lowered gaze. The right hand is raised before the chest, forming the abhaya (fearlessness) mudra. The figure has wide shoulders, a narrow waist, and is seated in full lotus position on a lotus throne.
An attendant Bodhisattva stands on each side of the niche. Both Bodhisattvas have high topknots and wear crowns. Their long hair drapes over their shoulders, and scarves cover their hair. They have high foreheads, long fine eyebrows, thin lips, small chins, and long necks. Both wear necklaces and celestial garments which cross the left shoulder. They stand naturally and express gentle benevolence, each with the hand closest to the Buddha raised at the chest.