Mogao Cave 17: Standing Bodhisattva

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty

The headpiece, streamers, body, and bottom portion of this 9th century banner are all well-preserved. When all of these parts are included in the measurement, the banner is 210.4 cm long. The Bodhisattva, facing slightly to one side, stands on a lotus pedestal with red and green petals. A strand of smoke rises from beside the shoulder of the Bodhisattva and grows into mushroom-shaped clouds above the nimbus. The Bodhisattva has long hair and wears a necklace, ornaments, bracelets, and a bejeweled headdress. The hands are held clasped together in front of the abdomen. Delicate shading and white lines are used to depict the folds in the robe and stoles. Blue streamers hang from the sides and bottom of the banner. Circular floral patterns are painted on the headpiece. There are small tassels stitched onto the banner holder and the bottom of the streamers.