Mogao Cave 61: Illustration of the Vimalakirti Sutra

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Five Dynasties

Located on the front (east) wall, this mural depicts scenes from the Vimalakirti Sutra. The right side of the mural centers on the “Chapter on Manjusri’s Visit.” Vimalakirti rests upon a square canopy bed. He wears long robes with wide sleeves and holds a fan in his right hand. Sariputra stands beside a female heavenly being to the right on a raised platform, while warriors, Dharma protectors, and devotees arrive to hear the Dharma.
Scenes from the other chapters are dispersed throughout the mural. In the illustration of the “Chapter on Accumulated Fragrance Buddha,” Manjusri Bodhisattva is depicted with a retinue of Bodhisattvas, disciples and Heavenly Kings. The manifested Bodhisattva, having descended upon a cloud, pours fragrant rice before Manjusri. Below Manjusri, an assembly of rulers arrive to hear the Dharma. They wear headdresses and floral-patterned robes. The rulers are accompanied by warriors and attendants who hold incense burners and other offerings. Following behind them are ministers carrying parasols and fans.
In the upper register is an illustration of the “Chapter on the Buddha Land.” The Buddha is depicted teaching beneath a grand canopy. Disciples, Bodhisattvas, and the Eight Classes of Dharma Protectors surround the Buddha, and elders stand before him holding parasols in offering. Other scenes include the “Chapter on the Vision of Aksobhya Buddha” on the upper left, “Chapter on Disciples” below it, and “Chapter on Skillful Means” on the lower right.