Mogao Cave 17: Buddhas and a Bodhisattva

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Northern Song dynasty

This 10th century artwork consists of multiple paintings joined together during restoration. The close resemblance of the two seated Buddhas suggests that they were originally connected, while the Bodhisattva is likely a later addition. Each Buddha has long ears, an urna, and a high usnisa topped with a pearl. They sit in full lotus position on lotus thrones, forming a mudra with their right hands. The nimbuses and mandorlas are composed of colorful rings. Flowers are painted in the upper corners. The Bodhisattva sits on a lotus throne and joins the palms in front of the chest. The body, turned slightly to one side, is adorned with ornaments and a fluttering stole. A headdress encircles the topknot. Swirling clouds are painted above a blank cartouche on the upper right.