Mogao Cave 36: Manjusri Bodhisattva and Attendants

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Five Dynasties

Cave 36 is located in the northern central section of the south area. It was originally considered as the antechamber of Cave 35. The two sides of the back (west) wall contain four Naga Kings and their family on the upper section and donors on the lower section. The north and south walls are painted with Samantabhadra, Manjusri, and Attendants.
Most of this mural of Manjusri Bodhisattva and Attendants on the south wall has been damaged. The only remaining section is found on the right side and displays Manjusri’s retinue of Bodhisattvas and Dharma protectors. In the image, Sakra leads the group, following Manjusri who is seated on a lion. Sakra is depicted with a round, bearded face with a high topknot, floral crown, various ornaments, and a long garment with large sleeves. In the left hand is a fan. Attendants to the right and behind support Sakra’s hand and carry the figure’s stole. Bodhisattvas and the Eight Classes of Dharma Protectors follow behind. The Bodhisattvas have full faces, fine eyebrows, and long, narrow eyes. They wear ornaments, stoles, and flowing garments with large sleeves. Some of the Bodhisattvas join their palms while others hold flags or lotus flowers. The Dharma protectors have wide eyes and fierce expressions.