Co-hosted by The University of Hong Kong Libraries and Chamber of Young Snow, the “Dreamlike Dunhuang: Recreating the Grandeur of Dunhuang” exhibition runs from now until September 7 at HKU Libraries. This event marks the first time in 12 years that the Dunhuang Academy has collaborated with both a Hong Kong higher education institution and a private organization for an exhibition, and it is the first occasion a hyper-realistic 1:1 scale replica of Dunhuang’s Mogao Cave 45 is on public display in Hong Kong—an opportunity not to be missed.
Spanning three months, the “Dreamlike Dunhuang: Recreating the Grandeur of Dunhuang” exhibition showcases over 100 Dunhuang artworks, some of which are classified as protected cultural relics. The exhibition comprises 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 gallery offers an immersive experience of Dunhuang Buddhist art through digital installations. Along with numerous Dunhuang murals on display, a large animated screen brings static mural figures to life before the audience, making the art appear to “dance.” The exhibition also features a series of luminous suspended paintings inspired by Dunhuang, with floor cushions allowing visitors to recline and take in the intricate details from a new perspective.
The centerpiece of the exhibition is the first-ever appearance in Hong Kong of a full-scale, hyper-realistic replica of Mogao Cave 45. This 1:1 replica measures around 25 square meters and stands nearly 5 meters tall. All four interior walls are decorated with Tang dynasty murals, while the ceiling faithfully reproduces the original cave’s signature slanted visual illusion. Seven distinctive polychrome sculptures are also featured, recreating the revered scene of the Buddha seated in lotus posture on a Sumeru throne, surrounded by disciples, bodhisattvas, and heavenly kings—all gathered to hear the Buddha’s teachings. The bodhisattva statues are especially exquisite, modeled on the female form, with graceful S-shaped curves, delicate bodies, subtly upturned lips, and lively, expressive eyes. In contrast, the heavenly king statues are full of strength and dynamism, exuding commanding presence.
Visitors can appreciate the astonishingly authentic interior of the Mogao Cave up close, with photo opportunities available throughout the exhibition—making it a perfect summer outing for families and anyone interested in Chinese culture.
Hyper-Realistic Mogao Cave Replica on Display for the First Time at HKU — Explore Six Exhibition Zones and Marvel at Dunhuang Murals for Free | Yellow Bus
