Restored Thousand-hand Bodhisattva to reopen next month

The restored Thousand-hand Bodhisattva in all its glory. May 5, 2015 [Photo/Xinhua]

Experts from the State Cultural Relic Bureau, Sichuan Museum, Dunhuang Academy, Central Academy of Fine Arts, Peking University and the Palace Museum staged a two-day comprehensive examination of the figure of the bodhisattva, or enlightened being, and reached agreement that the cultural heritage center is ready to open.

According to Zhan Changfa, head of the historical relic protection and restoration training center at the Chinese Academy of Culture Heritage, the team conquered all technical difficulties and achieved astonishing results in complicated climate and geographical conditions.

Archaeologists conducted an investigation and study of the "dark cell" or hidden compartment of the sculpture and relics found there. A preliminary investigation discovered that the sealing brick inscription accurately records renovation efforts dating back 200 years, with the words "established in April, the 45th year of Emperor Qianlong's reign".

On fragments removed from the hidden compartment, multi-layer gold leaf and plaster can be identified which are closely related to restoration efforts from different dynasties. Ceramic remnants have a bearing on Buddhism and activities of people from the era.