Mogao Cave 146: Ceiling

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Five Dynasties

Cave 146 is located at the south end of the Mogao Cave site. It was built during the Five Dynasties and underwent restorations during the Song (960–1279), Yuan (1271–1368), and Qing (1644–1911) dynasties. A Buddha altar is located in the center of the main chamber, upon which are a seated Buddha from the Song dynasty and ten disciples, Bodhisattvas, and warriors made during the Qing dynasty. Sutra illustrations are painted on the back and side walls.
In the center of this ceiling, painted against a green background, is a coiled dragon encircled by curling lotus petals and a five-segment cloud pattern. Four pairs of parakeets with outstretched wings are painted around the circle, and quarter circle motifs which repeat the central lotus and cloud patterns occupy the four corners of the inner square. The four slopes of the ceiling are embellished with several strips of patterning including beaded, diamond, and key patterns, manifested Buddhas on lotus blossoms, clouds, twining foliage, pennants, and valances. These borders tend to increase in width, adding a sense of depth to the rich and colorful ceiling.