Learn about ancient China art via Mogao Grottoes

Located on cliffs 25 km southeast of Dunhuang (one of famous China Travel Destinations), the first cave of Mogao Grottoes was carved out in the year 366 and so far it has a history of more than 1600 years. Artworks of this treasure house cover architectural design, sculptures and murals. Still preserved are 492 caves with 2,415 colored statues and 45,000sq of murals. It is the greatest and most consummate gallery of Buddhist art in the wolrd.

Flying Apsaras
Flying apsaras, described by the Buddhist scriptures as the goddess of fragrance and music, is a scented goddess who plays the musical instrument and dances. They are found in murals in all caves of Mogao.

Colored Sculptures in Mogao Grottoes
The colored statues are divided into four categories, namely buddha including Sakyamuni, Maitreya, Bhaisajyaguru and Amitabha. Bodhisattva, including Avalokitesvara, Manjusri, Samantaghadra and Bodhisattva the Great Pover - Coming; disciples of the Buddha, including Ananda and Kasyapa; and heavenly warriors and earth dieties. All the statues reflcet vividly the characteristics of different period.

Murals of Mogao Caves
The murals of Mogao Grottoes, with Buddhist stories, figures in Buddhist scriptures, stories of natural lives, Buddhist statues, apsaras and decorative patterns and designs as the chief subject matter, reveal the great and profound Buddhist philosophical thinking. They also reflect the life and various societal aspects of China for a period of over 16oo years.
tags: travel to China