In an exclusive interview, we had the opportunity to speak with Zhao Xufeng, an associate researcher at the Tianshan Mountain Grottoes Research Institute, who has dedicated the past two decades to the protection and study of the Tianshan Mountain Grottoes.
The Tianshan Mountain Grottoes, located about 50 kilometers south of Wuwei City in the Zhangyi Town area of Gansu Province, are renowned for their stunning beauty and rich historical significance. Often referred to as “the ancestor of grottoes,” they were carved during the Eastern Jin Dynasty and have been a focal point of Buddhist art for over 1,600 years.
Zhao shared his insights about the monumental history of the site, emphasizing the influential role it played in the development of China’s early grotto art. “These grottoes were commissioned by Juqu Mengxun, the ruler of the Northern Liang,” he explained. “He recognized the importance of creating these sculptures for their long-lasting preservation.” The Tianshan Mountain Grottoes have since served as a crucial reference point for the emergence of grottoes in adjacent areas, giving rise to what is known as the “Liangzhou model” in Buddhist grotto art.
As we spoke, Zhao highlighted that the Tianshan Mountain Grottoes not only impacted the development of the Bingling Temple and Maijishan Grottoes but also left a lasting legacy on sites further west, like the Mogao Caves and the caves in the Gaochang region. This valuable contribution to the study of Northern Buddhist grottoes and architecture has earned it the acclaim of being the “source of grottoes” in academic circles.
The exhibition dedicated to the Tianshan Mountain Grottoes at the Wuwei City Museum offers another perspective on their cultural and artistic value. The rare artifacts displayed tell a compelling story of the site’s historical evolution and significance.
During our discussion, Zhao introduced himself as the “storyteller of the grottoes.” His passion for the site is evident; he combines his expertise in grotto research with his efforts to promote the Hexi Baohua, a form of intangible cultural heritage in the region. “About 20 years ago, I began my journey here, working on artifact preservation and studying the grottoes,” he recounted. Over the years, he has not only focused on preserving the art but also on collecting, organizing, and publishing pieces related to the Liangzhou Baohua.
Zhao’s commitment to educating the public about the historical and cultural significance of the Tianshan Mountain Grottoes and the Liangzhou Baohua is palpable. “The Liangzhou Baohua is a branch of Buddhist literature that is more accessible and highlights important themes like filial piety and moral goodness,” he noted. When guiding visitors, he often embellishes his explanations with impromptu performances of Liangzhou Baohua, captivating the audience with its poignant melodies.
Ultimately, Zhao expressed his desire to pass on this rich cultural heritage to the next generation. He hopes to mentor young individuals in continuing the traditions of the Liangzhou Baohua and aims to replicate more grotto murals to further contribute to the preservation of the Tianshan Mountain Grottoes before he retires.
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