Mogao Cave 17: Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva and Attendants

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Five Dynasties

This 10th century painting was found in Mogao Cave 17. Avalokitesvara sits in full lotus position on a red lotus throne and forms the dhyana (meditation) mudra with both hands. The headdress, robe, and face of the Bodhisattva, as well as the base of the lotus throne, are highlighted with bright gold. A blue-ringed nimbus and aureole surround the body. Flames rise from the shoulders and the nimbus. The canopy at the top of the picture is flanked by two flying apsaras.
Beside Avalokitesvara, two monks dressed in monastic robes kneel on carpets, joining their palms and holding banners. Flames rise from their shoulders. In the lower corners, two children hold up offerings. The painting is framed by a red border decorated with floral patterns.