The Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang are a treasure house of ancient Chinese art. Even today, murals and painted sculptures remain in 492 of the caves. This book aims to take Cave 254, dating from the Northern Wei Dynasty, as an example to guide readers to a deeper understanding of the historical culture and artistic achievements of the grottoes in Dunhuang.

Having laid out the historical background of the excavation of Cave 254 in the way of historical narration, the book starts with a close reading of the murals on the north and south walls of Cave 254, following the spatial order inside the cave. Combined with the architectural form, murals, and painted sculptures, it offers an overall interpretation of the construction and conception of the grottoes. The hope is that this sort of model case will allow for a richer experience beyond the usual introduction, so that readers and viewers can have a better understanding of the spirit and meaning behind the images and more specifically experience the superb skills and ingenuity of the creators of Dunhuang’s Mogao Grottoes.

About the Authors
Chen Haitao and Chen Qi pursued their master’s degrees in Animation at the Beijing Film Academy and Oil Painting at the Central Academy of Fine Arts respectively. Upon graduation in 2006, they went to Dunhuang, engaged in Dunhuang art research, interpretative film design, and cultural and creative workshop planning. They created and completed two cultural and educational digital animation films, Self-sacrifice for the Tiger and Subdue the Devil, and co-published several papers.