(MENAFN) Fahai Temple, located in the western suburbs of Beijing, is home to one of the most splendid frescoes in China. The temple was built in 1439 during the Ming Dynasty and is renowned for its frescoes, which are considered among the "three major frescoes in China" alongside those found in Dunhuang and Yongle Palace.
In 1937, Angela Latham, a British journalist, visited the temple and wrote about her admiration for the Ming paintings. Latham expressed her concern about the neglect and degradation of these ancient treasures and suggested that they should be left in the custody of monks who understand their value.
Over the years, Fahai Temple suffered significant damage and destruction. However, after the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949, the Chinese government allocated funds for four overhauls. The temple's historical appearance was restored, and its murals have been preserved to this day.
Despite the frescoes' endurance, those who want to see a clearer picture of their original magnificence may feel disappointed. Tao Jun, the deputy director of the repository of cultural relics at Fahai Temple, explains that workers must ensure the ten existing pieces are kept away from light for a long time to protect the frescoes. The Grand Hall, where the frescoes are located, is open to the public on a limited basis every day, and visitors are required to use cold-light flashlights only when viewing the murals.
To strike a balance between preserving the frescoes and utilizing them, Chinese cultural relics conservators have strengthened management and preservation measures while applying digital technology. This approach has generated new ways of protection and presentation that can delay the aging process of Fahai Temple's frescoes and give the temple a new vitality.
In conclusion, Fahai Temple's frescoes are a testament to their creators' artistic prowess and the temple's cultural significance. Despite the challenges of time and neglect, these murals have endured and continue to inspire awe in visitors. Through the application of technology and preservation measures, the Chinese government is ensuring that these treasures are protected and that future generations can appreciate their beauty.
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