Mogao Cave 17: Avalokitesvara Holding a Willow Branch

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Northern Song dynasty

This painting from Mogao Cave 17 dates from the second half of the 10th century. Avalokitesvara sits in lotus position on a lotus throne above an altar. Adorned with thick golden ornaments and a matching crown, the Bodhisattva holds a willow branch in the raised right hand. The lowered left hand holds a vase. The nimbus is filled with swirling colors and the aureole is composed of colorful rings. A stole billows around the arms and shoulders. The folds on the stole and the dhoti are outlined in black and highlighted in white. A canopy hangs at the top of the painting. An incense burner and a pair of vases rest on the altar in the lower register. The altar is flanked by a monk holding a second incense burner and a female figure wearing a robe with wide sleeves.