Research on Dunhuang Architecture

Author: Xiao Mo
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-03-01
Features: This book comprehensively studies the architecture of Dunhuang from the perspective of architectural art history, including the rich architectural materials preserved in Dunhuang murals, as well as existing physical structures and ruins in Dunhuang, such as ancient city sites, the Yumen Pass and Yangguan, the timber structures of Tang and Song cave eaves in the Mogao Caves, the architectural ruins in front of the Mogao Caves, and the ancient pagodas of Dunhuang. Before delving into our research topic, it is necessary to take a cross-temporal journey through Dunhuang, following the footsteps of history to trace the tumultuous events that swept across this magical land and explore the magnificent scenes that unfolded here. We seek to uncover the historical background that gave rise to the splendid architectural heritage of Dunhuang and to immerse ourselves in endless contemplation.
The Mogao Caves are a world-renowned cultural and artistic treasure trove, with murals preserving a vast array of architectural images from the Sixteen Kingdoms to the Yuan Dynasty. This book elaborates in detail on various architectural types, including temples, watchtowers, city walls, pagodas, residential buildings, and others, as well as architectural components, decorations, construction techniques, and architectural paintings. It conducts an in-depth study of ancient Dunhuang architecture. With abundant and meticulous research, it establishes connections across multiple aspects of the development of Dunhuang architecture, conducts verifications and arguments, and proposes many new insights. This book fills gaps in the study of Chinese architectural art and holds significant academic value.