Study on the Subjects and Styles of Mural Paintings in the Kizil Grottoes of Xinjiang
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54097/32spcs34Keywords:
Kizil Grottoes, Mural Paintings, Buddhist Art, Themes, Style, XinjiangAbstract
The Kizil Caves, situated in Baili County within the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China, rank among the most significant Buddhist sites along the historic Silk Road. The murals adorning these caves are not merely works of Buddhist art; they serve as invaluable resources for understanding the historical and cultural legacies of the Western Regions. This article delves into an in-depth examination of the themes and stylistic elements found in Kizil Cave murals, shedding light on their significance within Buddhist artistry and highlighting their rich characteristics reflecting multicultural fusion. These murals depict a wide range of themes, including narratives from Buddha's life, Jataka tales, stories exploring causal relationships, everyday secular activities, and decorative arts. Their artistic styles exhibit influences from Indian traditions, Central Asian motifs, and aspects derived from Han culture found in the Central Plains. Research findings underscore that the Kizil Cave murals hold remarkable artistic and historical significance; they encapsulate religious beliefs and social customs prevalent during that period while offering valuable insights into cultural interactions facilitated by the ancient Silk Road.
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