Mogao Cave 146: Vaisravana

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Five Dynasties

This illustration is located in the northwest corner of the cave ceiling. The Mahaprajnaparamita Sastra describes the Heavenly King of the North as “Vaisravana, leader of the yaksas and raksasas.” In this illustration, Vaisravana is depicted with round eyes, a large mouth, and long red hair. He wears a crown and has a round nimbus with black flames around its edges. His armor is decorated with scale patterns and flower whorls. War boots are worn on his feet, and a stole is wrapped around his shoulders. Both hands support a pagoda that subdues evil beings. The Heavenly King faces to one side and kneels on one knee upon a platform. He is accompanied by a yaksa, a raksasa, two heavenly beings, and other followers. The yaksa and raksasa have protruding eyes, sharp teeth and bulging muscles, appearing fearsome. Both heavenly beings face Vaisravana and are vividly portrayed with full faces, reverent expressions, and floral crowns. They are dressed in the style of noblewomen of the Khotan Kingdom during the Five Dynasties (907–960). The colorful illustration is embellished with golden accents.