The Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Dunhuang, China, have become a symbol of resilience and preservation, showcasing a rich tapestry of history and culture. As the site commemorates the 90th anniversary of the evacuation of its collection, the dedication to protecting and promoting Dunhuang culture has unfolded impressively over generations.
The Mogao Caves, with their ancient history stretching back 1,657 years, have been meticulously maintained and researched by generations of dedicated scholars. Su Bomin, the director of the Dunhuang Academy, sheds light on the ongoing efforts and innovations employed by the new generation of experts.
The primary challenge faced by the Mogao Caves is their natural aging process. Su emphasizes the importance of employing scientific protection measures to extend their lifespan, enabling in-depth research and promotion of Dunhuang culture.
Scientific Foundation for Preservation
China’s cultural heritage preservation authorities have recently underscored the importance of scientific methods in cultural relic preservation. Su, who joined the academy in 1992, has been pivotal in analyzing the pigment composition of the caves’ murals, identifying key factors contributing to their discoloration, such as air, environment, light, and humidity.
Efflorescence, or salt crystallization, poses another significant threat to the murals. Through a collaboration with the Getty Conservation Institute, Su’s team developed groundbreaking desalination technology to control salt content in the murals, reducing the impact of air humidity fluctuations.
Balancing Preservation with Tourism
The Mogao Caves have shifted focus from salvaging relics to preventing future degradation. Su highlights the importance of establishing a scientific management model and implementing protective measures based on research into environmental changes at ancient sites.
The Dunhuang Academy has developed a sustainable tourist management model for the Mogao Caves, employing online reservations, digital displays, and controlled cave exploration to minimize damage while enhancing visitor experiences.
In 2002, the academy commissioned a “visitor capacity study” in collaboration with international partners, determining the maximum daily visitor capacity and setting microenvironmental control limits. The site now features real-time monitoring instruments in all caves, showcasing the conditions to visitors.
Digital Preservation and International Collaboration
The digital exploration of the Mogao Caves began in the late 1980s, aiming for permanent preservation and sustainable use. The digitalized version of the caves, inscribed on the UNESCO Memory of the World Register in 2013, consists of 3D scanning and a comprehensive digital database.
Su acknowledges the importance of international collaboration in preserving Dunhuang’s culture. The academy’s partnership with the Getty Conservation Institute, spanning over 30 years, has been instrumental in achieving significant preservation milestones.
As the Dunhuang Academy looks to the future, it envisions continued collaboration with global partners, ensuring that the charm of Dunhuang culture resonates worldwide. The academy’s commitment to preserving this invaluable heritage site, combining scientific innovation and international cooperation, serves as a beacon of cultural preservation efforts globally.
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