Mogao Cave 17: Water-Moon Avalokitesvara

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Northern Song dynasty

Although this painting differs from most other portrayals of Water-Moon Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, an inscription in the upper left corner identifies the central figure as such. Rather than sitting in a relaxed pose on a rock above the water, the Bodhisattva sits in full lotus position on a lotus throne. Avalokitesvara has arched eyebrows, narrowed eyes, red lips, and a thin mustache. There is a Buddha image in the center of the headdress. The black hair falls in curls over the shoulders. Gold ornaments, a stole, and a dhoti cover the body. The right hand is raised, supporting a willow branch, and the left hand holds a vase. The colorful nimbus and aureole are embellished with flame patterns, and are contained within a white moon disc.
The four figures in the lower register are identified by the central inscription as the Cao family; the male donor on the right, and his wife and mother on the left. Dated 968 of the Northern Song dynasty, the inscription states that they pray for the safe birth of a new baby. The cartouche on the upper left corner pays homage to Water-Moon Avalokitesvara.