Narrative and Symbolism:A Study of"Brahmans Playing Music"from the Perspective of Chinese Musical Philology
As a common compositional element in large-scale Nirvana Sutra illustrations,the iconographic motif traditionally named"Brahmans Playing Music"or"Non-Buddhist Musicians"in traditional art catalogues,typically depicts several Brahman figures performing music and dance around the remains of Shakyamuni with cymbals,drums,lutes,flutes,and clappers.However,due to the absence of corresponding narrative texts in the Chinese(A)gama sutras,there has long been considerable disagreement in academic circles regarding the identity of this secular band and the nature of their music and dance.This paper interprets the"Brahman Playing Music"motif from the perspective of Chinese musical philology,pointing out that the image originates from a ritual chant developed in medieval China.Utilizing material discovered in the Dunhuang manuscript Fo-mu Zan(Chant of the Māyā),it reveals that this motif is essentially a visual representation of a Chinese Buddhist devotional song.Based on this,the paper re-examines its iconographic implications,and in comparison with contemporary Chinese court music,uncovers the deliberate portrayal of entertainment music features within this iconographic narrative.
Brahmans Playing MusicCave Inscriptions in DunhuangBezkilik GrottoesChant of the MāyāGandhara Art