Mogao Cave 332: Amitabha Buddha and Fifty-Two Bodhisattvas

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty

This mural is located to the right of the entrance on the front (east) wall of the main chamber. It is one of three such illustrations currently preserved at the Mogao Caves. According to the Record of Miraculous Responses to the Triple Gem in China by Daoxuan, the mural contains auspicious images, or images associated with miraculous events.
Amitabha Buddha and Bodhisattvas are positioned on lotus flowers within a large pond. The lotus stems branch out in all directions, and seated upon the largest lotus at the center is Amitabha Buddha. The Buddha has broad shoulders, a slim waist, and wears a diaphanous robe. The figure is seated in full lotus position and the hands form the Dharmacakra (Dharma wheel) mudra. Above the Buddha is a large, splendid canopy. To the right and left stand Avalokitesvara and Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattvas, respectively. Both Bodhisattvas are slim and wear elaborate garments and accessories. They assume graceful postures and their long stoles are draped elegantly across their bodies. The other 50 Bodhisattvas are seated in various postures and wear floral headdresses, armlets, and bracelets.