Mogao Cave 253: Standing Bodhisattva
Clay
Mogao Cave 253: Standing Bodhisattva (detail)
Mogao Cave 253: Standing Bodhisattva
CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Sui dynasty
Cave 253 was constructed during the Sui dynasty (581–618). This statue once stood on the left side of the back (west) wall niche within the cave, along with a Buddha, two disciples, and another Bodhisattva.
The Bodhisattva has a serene and gentle expression, and stands barefoot upon a pedestal, the waist swaying slightly to one side. The figure wears a necklace, bracelets, and a headdress with a red ribbon braided through three large rings. A stole is draped over the body, and the lower body is clothed in a red garment decorated with white flowers and blue trim. The left hand is raised and touches the necklace, while the right hand hangs down naturally, gently clasping the stole.
For more details, go to the Encyclopedia of Buddhist Arts: Caves M-Mo, page 1062.
Cite this article:
author = Hsingyun and Youheng and Johnson, Peter and Mankuang and Huntington, Susan and Edson, Gary and Neather, Robert,
booktitle = {Encyclopedia of Buddhist Arts: Caves M-Mo},
pages = 1062,
title = {{Mogao Cave 253: Standing Bodhisattva}},
volume = 7,
year = {2016}}