Mogao Cave 17: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty

This is one of several banners depicting Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva found in Mogao Cave 17, indicating the popularity of the Bodhisattva in the Dunhuang region. Although the headpiece and lower portion of the banner are missing, the body is in good condition. Ksitigarbha is depicted standing at a slight angle on a purple lotus pedestal. Dressed in a green inner robe with a patched monastic robe draped over the left shoulder, the Bodhisattva holds a flaming jewel in the right hand and forms a mudra with the left. The nimbus is colored in green and red. Green dots representing stubble cover the bare head. A trail of color rises from the flaming jewel and expands into swirling clouds above the nimbus. Small flowers are painted in the upper corners. The band at the top of the banner is worn out, while its counterpart in the lower register is comprised of diamond designs with red and green backgrounds and floral-patterned inserts. There is an empty cartouche beside Ksitigarbha’s head. The precise painting techniques employed on the banner suggest that it dates from the 10th century.