Mogao Cave 61: Illustration of the Lotus Sutra

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Five Dynasties

Work on this mural on the south wall began during the Sui dynasty (581–618) and continued during subsequent dynasties. It illustrates more than 20 of the 28 chapters in the Lotus Sutra. Many of the scenes are labeled with inscriptions. In the middle register is a depiction of the assembly at Vulture Peak described in the “Introductory Chapter” of the sutra. The Buddha sits in full lotus position on a lotus throne in the center, forming the Dharmacakra (Dharma Wheel) mudra. Bodhisattvas Manjusri and Samantabhadra are seated next to the Buddha. A decorative canopy hangs above the Buddha and each Bodhisattva. An assembly of disciples, Bodhisattvas and the Eight Classes of Dharma Protectors surrounds the three central figures. More Bodhisattvas rise into the sky upon clouds, forming a semicircle around the gathering. At the top of the mural is a depiction of the “Chapter on the Emergence of the Prabhutaratna Pagoda” Sakyamuni and Prabhutaratna Buddhas sit side by side within the pagoda, flanked by two groups of figures.
At the bottom of the painting are illustrations of the “Chapter on Skillful Means,” “Chapter on Similes and Parables,” “Chapter on Belief and Understanding,” and “Chapter on Peaceful Practices.” On the left side of the painting are the “Chapter on the Parable of the Phantom City,” “Chapter on the Parable of Medicinal Herbs,” “Chapter on the Merit of Rejoicing,” “Chapter on Gadgadasvara Bodhisattva,” “Chapter on Encouraging Devotion,” “Chapter on Sadaparibhuta Bodhisattva,” and “Chapter on Emerging from the Earth.” On the right are the “Chapter on the Past Deeds of Bhaisajyaraja Bodhisattva,” “Chapter on the Past Deeds of King Subhavyaha,” “Chapter on the Lifespan of Tathagata,” the “Universal Gateway Chapter,” “Chapter on Devadatta,” and “Chapter on Dharani.” The scenes are arranged around the central assembly, forming a rich and orderly sequence of images that visually expound the sutra.