Treasure-Guarding Dragon 守宝神龙 (Yu Ding)

This image depicts the Treasure-Guarding Dragon, protector of the precious treasures offered to Buddha in the Maitreya Transformation mural of Yulin Cave 25. Seated upon colorful clouds, the dragon symbolizes protection, prosperity, and divine blessing. Notably, it is the only known seated dragon in Dunhuang art. Together with the Nine-Colored Deer, Blue Bird, and Winged Horse, it is celebrated as one of the Four Auspicious Beasts of Dunhuang, embodying hope, abundance, and well-being.