Digital technology creates new possibilities to preserve Gongyi Grottoes

Gongyi Grottoes. [Photo by Wang Xiangyang/For chinadaily.com.cn]

Along the Yellow River, Gongyi Grottoes — carved into Dali Mountain in Heluo town, Gongyi city — contain the only complete set ofEmperor and Empress Worshiping the Buddhareliefs known to exist.

"These reliefs provide a vivid depiction of the life in Northern Wei Dynasty (386-534)," Yan Tiecheng, a historian of Chinese culture, said.

Yan noted that Gongyi Grottoes ranks among China's four surviving royal cave temple complexes, a distinguished group that include theYungang Grottoes,Longmen Grottoes, and Xiangtangshan Grottoes.

"However, Gongyi Grottoes offers what the others lack: a complete visual record of Northern Wei imperial ceremony, which is preserved in its original context," Yan added.

In addition,Flying ApsarasReliefs,unlike the earlier depictions that are more robust, are noted for their slender figures, trailing ribbons, and faces adorned with slight smiles.

Emperor and Empress Worshiping the Buddha reliefs in Gongyi Grottoes in Gongyi city, Zhengzhou, Henan province. [Photo by Zhang Xinwei/For chinadaily.com.cn]

Chinese art historians have praised it as the "most beautiful the flying apsaras in China", highlighting the aesthetic qualities and cultural significance of this depiction in Chinese art history.

"Earlier figures emphasized strength; this one emphasizes grace," Yan said. "It points toward the Tang dynasty style to come."

The site is under continuous threat due to the erosion of its soft limestone and the losses of soil from surrounding hills, which exacerbates water damage. In response, conservators have implemented anti-seepage measures, slope stabilization techniques, and digital documentation efforts to protect and preserve the site, according to Xu Xin, the deputy director of the Cultural Heritage Center of Gongyi city.

Xu mentioned that digital technology is opening up new possibilities, enabling the preservation of every detail and enhancing the experience for visitors by bringing these details to life.

A digital exhibition hall which was launched in 2023 will use VR, AR, and holographic displays to recreate the imperial processions in motion.