Rare ancient murals, sculptures found in SW China

Murals and clay sculptures from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) have recently been discovered at a Tibetan temple in Shiqu county, Garze Tibetan autonomous prefecture, Southwest China's Sichuan province. [Photo/China News Service]

A group of well-preserved Buddhist murals and clay sculptures from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) were recently found at a Tibetan lama temple in Southwest China's Sichuan province, providing rich research materials pertaining to Tibetan Buddhism.

The well-preserved murals represent the artistic achievements of East Tibet during the Ming Dynasty, which boasted unique local artistic techniques with beautiful colors, smooth lines, elegant decorations and a compact layout.

The temple was built in 1269 and has gradually deteriorated due to lack of protection. Recent efforts have been made to renovate the dilapidated temple and preserve these rare ancient relics.