Kizil Cave 38: Cakravartin Offering Lamps

CHINA, Xinjiang, Aksu

This mural is on the left side of the barrel-vaulted ceiling within the main chamber and depicts a story from the Extraordinary Stories from Sutras and Vinayas. According to the story, there was once a cakravartin, who rules all of the continents. This cakravartin resolved to make a great offering to the Buddhas, so he placed a lamp on his head, a lamp on each shoulder, and a lamp on each of his hands, knees, and the insteps of his feet. This is a light offering, symbolizing the illumination of others with the insights gained through the practice of the Dharma. The cakravartin made this offering for an entire day and night.
In the painting, the Buddha is seated in the full lotus position on a rectangular throne and has a multi-colored, multi-layered nimbus and aureole. A dark monastic robe is worn over the left shoulder, and the right hand is held out towards the cakravartin, acknowledging his humble offering, while the left hand is held at the chest. The Buddha’s head is tilted slightly towards the cakravartin, who is kneeling in obeisance while holding the oil lamps. The cakravartin looks sincere and earnest, while the Buddha looks magisterial and astute.