Mogao Cave 36: Samantabhadra Bodhisattva and Attendants

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Five Dynasties

This mural is on the north wall of Cave 36. Samantabhadra Bodhisattva is associated with great practice and, along with Manjusri, is considered an attendant to Sakyamuni Buddha. The composition of this scene is similar to that of the illustration of Manjusri Bodhisattva and Attendants on the south wall. The left side of the mural consists mostly of Samantabhadra’s retinue of Bodhisattvas and the Eight Classes of Dharma Protectors.
Brahma leads the retinue at the front and is slightly bigger than the rest. His face is wide and he has elongated downward-gazing eyes. He is clothed in celestial garments, with large sleeves and flowing layers. Brahma’s right hand forms the vitarka (teaching) mudra, and he appears deep in thought. An attendant supports him on either side. The Bodhisattvas behind Brahma assume various postures, some with joined palms and others carrying lotus flowers or banners. Some of the Dharma protectors have fierce expressions, while others appear contemplative.