Kizil Cave 17: Prince Kubha Jataka

CHINA, Xinjiang, Aksu

This painting is located on the right side of the barrel-vaulted ceiling in the main chamber. According to the Sutra of Prince Kubha, Prince Kubha in Varanasi was aware of his previous lives, but he did not speak for 13 years. A brahmin told the king that it was not appropriate for the prince to behave in that way and suggested that he be buried alive to bring about an auspicious son for the king. Influenced by the evil advice, the king ordered to have the prince buried alive. On the brink of his burial, the prince spoke out, which gratified the king. The prince was then escorted back to the palace where he succeeded to the throne. The prince eventually talked about the cause and effect of his previous lives, advised the king to follow the Dharma, and subsequently renounced.
In the diamond-shaped painting is Prince Kubha, eyes closed, positioned in a black casket. Beneath the casket is a tree sprout. Two figures above the casket kneel with their right knees on the ground. The one on the left holds a rope; while the other raises his left hand and turns, supporting his foot on the casket. These figures bind the rope around the wooden casket in order to bury the prince alive.