Dunhuang: Global Gallery of Art and Faith
The Mogao Caves in the desert of northwest China tell a story of art and Buddhism that began more than 1,500 years ago.
Founded in 111 bce on China’s westernmost border at the end of the Great Wall, Dunhuang was one of the main stations and garrison towns through which Buddhist monks as well as traders traveling east and west. The nearly 500 caves collectively called the Mogao Caves — a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987 — are carved into cliffs about 15 miles from the oasis town of Dunhuang.
At the start of the 20th century the caves were discovered, and over time they revealed a treasure trove of sculptures, manuscripts, painted scrolls and wall paintings ranging in date from the 4th to the 14th centuries. The cave temples preserve about 2,000 Buddhist sculptures, 45,000 square meters of murals and more than 60,000 texts.
The Mogao caves at Dunhuang had an international character since their origin. The main influences in style and iconography first came from the west, but as Buddhism prospered in metropolitan China, new doctrines and new compositions flowed back to Dunhuang.
Professor Roderick Whitfield, School of African and Oriental Studies at the University of London, will discuss the artwork, history, geography and religious aspects of Dunhuang, China.
Wine Reception: 6:30PM
Lecture: 7:00PM
Cost: Free for members; $25 for guests
Fees for this event will be billed to the member’s account.
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