Marking the first collaboration between Chamber of Young Snow and The University of Hong Kong Libraries, this three-month exhibition runs from June 7 to September 7, welcoming the public with free admission starting immediately.
The exhibition features over 100 Dunhuang artworks, including some pieces classified as protected cultural relics. For the first time in Hong Kong, a hyper-realistic, full-scale 1:1 replica of Mogao Cave 45 is on display, covering approximately 25 square meters and standing nearly 5 meters tall.
Inside the cave, all four walls are adorned with Tang dynasty murals, and the ceiling reproduces the original cave’s unique slanted visual effect. The installation also includes seven uniquely crafted polychrome sculptures, faithfully recreating the existing scene in Dunhuang’s Mogao Caves: the Buddha seated in lotus posture on a Sumeru throne, surrounded on both sides by disciples, bodhisattvas, and heavenly kings, all attentively listening to his teachings.
The exhibition space is organized into six themed sections:
- Unit 1: Silk Road Journeys
- Unit 2: Colors on the Wall
- Unit 3: Majestic Buddhist Palace
- Unit 4: The Human World in All Its Forms
- Unit 5: Treasures of the Stone Chamber
- Unit 6: Roaming the Pure Land
The third floor of the exhibition offers an immersive digital art experience that highlights the unique style of Dunhuang Buddhist art. In addition to displaying various Dunhuang murals, there is a large animated screen area where static mural figures are brought to life, appearing to “dance” before the audience.
The collection also features luminous suspended paintings—exuding the essence of Dunhuang art—positioned above floor cushions, where visitors are invited to lie down and appreciate the intricate mural patterns and details from a new perspective.
This is a translated version of the original article. View the source here:
HKU Libraries Presents 1:1 Replica of Dunhuang Mogao Cave 45 — Free Admission for the Public | 大紀元
