Dabaoji Palace: Sakyamuni Buddha Assembly

CHINA, Yunnan, Lijiang; Ming dynasty

This scene on the west wall of Dabaoji Palace is the biggest temple mural in Lijiang. It depicts Sakyamuni Buddha teaching the Dharma to an assembly of Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, Arhats, heavenly beings, and Dharma protecting deities. This elegant mural harmoniously blends Han, Tibetan, and Naxi painting styles.
The central figure, Sakyamuni Buddha, wears a red monastic robe, sits in lotus position on a lotus throne atop a Sumeru base, and probably forms the bhumisparsa (earth-touching) mudra. The color on the nimbus and aureole, as well as the facial features of the Buddha, have worn away. Mahakasyapa and Ananda stand on cushions at the sides of the Buddha’s throne. Both of them hold a monk’s staff and a bowl. The Buddhas of the Ten Directions sit on clouds beside a canopy that hangs above the Buddha.
Bodhisattvas, Arhats, and Heavenly Kings, as well as Dharma protectors such as Brahma, Sakra, and Skanda are depicted below. There are also images of Daoist deities including rulers of the five great mountains, and the immortal officers of heaven. Mahakala, Cakrasamvara, and Yamantaka stand below the Buddha, each surrounded by a mandorla decorated with flame patterns.