Dunhuang Grottoes Collection — Animal Scroll (19)

Author: Editor-in-Chief of Dunhuang Academy, Liu Yuquan as Editor-in-Chief
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2000-06-01
Features: This scroll is volume 19 of The Complete Collection of Dunhuang Grottoes, titled Animal Paintings. The volume collects a rich variety of animal images, including realistic animals and mythical auspicious creatures; birds and beasts; works in realistic style and exaggerated yet expressive style; secular animal depictions and patterned designs. In summary, this scroll records typical scenes and forms of animal imagery in the Dunhuang caves since the Northern and Southern Dynasties. These long-preserved ancient painting materials are extremely valuable primary sources. It itself serves as an indispensable textbook for the history of ancient Chinese art. The animal forms and coloration in this volume exhibit the distinct characteristics of Dunhuang art.
Animal paintings in the Dunhuang caves can generally be categorized into three types:
1. Realistic animals depicted as subjects,
2. Mythical auspicious creatures from legends,
3. Architectural decorative patterns.
The architectural decorative patterns are covered in The Patterns Collection of The Complete Collection of Dunhuang Grottoes. This volume primarily focuses on realistic animals. These animal paintings display clear stylistic and regional features. Their origins include painting techniques transmitted from the Central Plains, as well as bas-relief methods from the Western Regions. They encompass meticulous brushwork, freehand techniques, line drawings, boneless painting, and heavy-color techniques. Some of these methods are not used in isolation, resulting in a harmonious blend of strength and subtlety.
Although modern animal paintings had not yet established systems for dissecting bones, muscles, and movements, keen observation and rich life experience allowed the artists to gain a deep understanding of animal anatomy. Especially evident is their clear intention to convey emotions through animal appearances. The skilled lines and vibrant colors all radiate vitality, reflecting the Dunhuang painters' celebration of life. This embodies the essence of artistic spirit that we still pursue today, as well as the inspiration left by history.