A thousand years in a glance, encounter the Dunhuang Art Museum

The first stop of my trip to Lanzhou was the Dunhuang Art Museum, and it was truly eye-opening! It felt like a journey through time spanning a thousand years, with every step offering a chance to encounter the weight of history and the brilliance of art! The exhibition area showcasing the opening of the Mogao Caves and the craftsmanship of sculptures and paintings was particularly captivating. There were both physical exhibits and detailed textual descriptions, from the meticulous consideration of geology and orientation during the selection of cave sites, to the arduous work of craftsmen chiseling caves with hammers and axes, and the complex process of sculpting, coloring, and decorating statues. It was all deeply moving. Then there were the statues with various expressions, some solemn and dignified, others compassionate and peaceful. The intricate and realistic clothing textures, the lively and natural finger gestures, every detail showcased the extraordinary craftsmanship of ancient artisans, leaving one in awe of the greatness of art. The mural area was even more astonishing, with colorful scenes depicting ancient myths, historical stories, and everyday life. The traces of time added a touch of mottling to these murals, enhancing their unique charm, as if softly narrating stories of the past. A must-mention is the precious Wutai Mountain Transformation Map displayed in the museum. This map holds great significance. It was with the help of the Wutai Mountain Transformation Map in the Dunhuang murals that Mr. Liang Sicheng discovered the Foguang Temple in Wutai Mountain, Shanxi. This Tang Dynasty wooden structure, hidden for centuries, confirmed the accuracy of the Wutai Mountain Transformation Map and provided important evidence for the study of ancient Chinese architecture. Standing in front of this map, one could almost see Mr. Liang Sicheng's figure exploring ancient temples, and truly appreciate the profound impact of Dunhuang art on future research. The professional explanations by the museum's guides brought Dunhuang art to life from history. From the origins of art to its development and transformation, and the cultural connotations behind it, everything was presented in an accessible manner. If you also love history and culture, be sure to visit the Dunhuang Art Museum, where you can touch history, feel the charm of art, and embark on an unforgettable cultural journey! 📍Address: No. 522, South Binhe East Road, Chengguan District, Lanzhou City. 🚇Transportation: Lanzhou Metro Line 1 Dongfanghong Square Station is relatively close to the art museum.