Research on the Thousand Buddhas Images in the Mogao Caves of Dunhuang

Author: Liang Xiaopeng
Publisher:
Publishing Time: Not available
Features: This book employs methods such as field investigations, literature review, comparative analysis of images and texts, and the use of previous research findings to define and classify the Thousand Buddhas images in the Mogao Caves. Based on this, it analyzes the structure and characteristics of the Thousand Buddhas images from the perspectives of iconology and linguistics, and explores their status and functions within the overall Buddhist caves of the Mogao Caves. At the same time, it points out the necessity of further research on the Thousand Buddhas images as a symbol to establish a truly meaningful iconology of the Dunhuang. The book is divided into six chapters.
Chapter 1: Introduction outlines the inconsistency between the extensive research on large-scale Thousand Buddhas images and the limited research on smaller-scale ones in the Mogao Caves. It proposes that the Thousand Buddhas images may serve a unifying function within the cave complexes and emphasizes the necessity of studying them from the perspective of the entire cave.
Chapter 2: Review of Previous Research summarizes the findings on Thousand Buddhas images. The first part organizes the identification and description of these images in previous studies, while the second part analyzes and examines the research on images of processions of Buddhas, summarizing the principles and experiences of predecessors in identifying and analyzing Thousand Buddhas images, as well as the existing doubts and issues.
Chapter 3: Definition, Classification, and Function of Thousand Buddhas Images explores the definition, categories, and functions of Thousand Buddhas images through a comparative analysis of relevant Buddhist scriptures and images in the Mogao Caves. The author argues that Thousand Buddhas images are depictions of Buddhas based on scriptures, serving as a creative visual expression of a group of Buddhas, with quantities ranging from dozens to thousands. These images are divided into two broad categories: the former refers to groups of Buddhas with numerous but unnamed figures, while the latter includes specific named figures with relatively certain quantities. This chapter also analyzes the potential relationships between scriptures related to Thousand Buddhas, such as the Lotus Sutra, and the Thousand Buddhas images in the Mogao Caves, pointing out that the Thousand Buddhas serve as objects of reverence, witnesses, and guides for Buddhist followers.
Chapter 4: Iconological Analysis of the Macro and Micro Structures and Characteristics of Thousand Buddhas Images examines the overall linear, symmetrical, interconnected, alternating, dynamic, and intertextual features of Thousand Buddhas images, as well as their relationship with other images in terms of positioning. Individual Thousand Buddhas images can be decomposed into basic features such as the body of the Buddha, the lotus pedestal, the halo, the canopy, the inscriptions, and the frames, as well as selective features. These features can be further broken down, with characteristics like handprints exhibiting a certain systematic nature and rich meanings.
Chapter 5: Linguistic Analysis of the Relationship Between Thousand Buddhas Images, Thousand Buddhas, and Thousand Buddhas Texts in Dunhuang Manuscripts explores the production process of these images by examining differences in various versions and different copies of scriptures featuring the names of the Thousand Buddhas.
Chapter 6: Conclusion preliminarily analyzes the reasons for the popularity of Thousand Buddhas images and treats them as symbols, proposing the use of semiotic methods to study their position within the system of Buddhist image representations.