Mogao Cave 423: Buddha Teaching the Dharma

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Sui dynasty

This niche is on the back (west) wall of the main chamber. The niche lintel is composed of two dragons. Their bodies join at the top and their sculpted heads and arms emerge from the frame on either side of the niche, with their forefeet resting on lotus columns. Above them, the architrave is embellished with a colorful flame pattern. The niche itself is arched and within it is a statue of the Buddha accompanied by two disciples and two Bodhisattvas. The Buddha is seated with legs pendent and appears tall and strong, with a square face and solemn expression, a flat usnisa, and elongated earlobes. He wears a monastic robe, and the right hand forms a variation of the vitarka (teaching) mudra. Behind the Buddha is a mandorla consisting of floral and flame patterns, and in the uppermost part of the niche are two apsaras positioned symmetrically on either side. The disciples Mahakasyapa and Ananda stand to the left and right of the Buddha. Their eyes are downcast as they listen attentively to the Buddha’s teachings. Two Bodhisattvas stand next to the disciples, wearing celestial garments.