Mogao Cave 263: Bodhisattvas Making Offerings

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Northern Wei dynasty

These images are on the east slope of the gabled ceiling. Each Bodhisattva assumes a different posture. The first figure on the left leans to one side and bends slightly at the waist. The head is lowered toward the two hands, which are held before the chest. The Bodhisattva has a bare upper torso and wears a long, blue lower garment. The legs are slightly bent, and the feet point in opposite directions. The second figure has a circular nimbus and wears a headdress with silk ribbons and large earrings. The right hand is lifted to the head and the left arm is folded inward. The Bodhisattva wears blue celestial garments with complex folds, and stands with legs apart on a blue pedestal. The third figure’s head is tilted forward and is surrounded by a blue nimbus. There are large rings in the ears, and the hands are joined in front of the chest. The figure wears a long, white lower garment, and a stole swirls around the upper body. The fourth Bodhisattva wears a headdress and leans forward, bending at the waist. An offering is held before the chest with both hands. There are large rings in the ears, and the lower body is covered by a black garment. The four Bodhisattvas appear uninhibited and agile. Twining branches, leaves, and flowers are painted above the figures. A ring in black or blue color is depicted high above each figure.