Kumtura Caves: Fragment of a Bodhisattva

CHINA, Xinjiang, Aksu

This painted fragment, found within the Kumtura Caves, is a well-preserved depiction of a Bodhisattva. The center-parted hair is combed back and coiled into a topknot adorned with petal-shaped ornaments. The hairline is framed with red lines and the face is sculpted with plump cheeks and painted with natural hues in light wash. Fine black lines outline the eyebrows and eyes, while the pupils are dotted with black ink, clearly expressing the Bodhisattva’s narrow and long eyes. The Bodhisattva has a small mouth and nose defined by the use of fine red line, and the ears are elongated. The upper torso is adorned with a large necklace. Flowers were each molded separately and later attached together to form the necklace. The overall appearance of the sculpture is elegant with delicate facial features, achieving a serene expression. This Bodhisattva clearly resembles the sculptural style of the Tang dynasty (618–907).