Zhang Daqian's Dunhuang works make Ningbo debut

The exhibition area at the Ningbo Maitreya Museum. [Photo/Yongpai App]

An exhibition featuring authentic Dunhuang mural copies by renowned Chinese painter Zhang Daqian has opened at the Ningbo Maitreya Museum in Fenghua district, Ningbo.

Running from June 30 to Sept 20, the exhibition brings together nearly 30 of Zhang's celebrated Dunhuang works alongside more than 20 exquisite ancient Buddhist sculptures, marking the first comprehensive exhibition of the master's art in Ningbo.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest Chinese painters of the 20th century, Zhang is known for his achievements in landscapes, figure painting, and bird-and-flower art.

This exhibition focuses on his transformative years studying the murals of Dunhuang, a period that profoundly shaped his artistic style. His meticulous copies capture the vibrant colors, expressive figures, and timeless beauty of the ancient murals while preserving valuable historical details from the Silk Road era.

Visitors can also explore A Comprehensive Collection of Ancient Chinese Paintings, which features high-definition reproductions of Dunhuang murals and a life-sized replica of a grotto, offering an immersive journey into China's artistic heritage. Unfinished sketches on display reveal Zhang's creative process, providing a rare glimpse into the master's craftsmanship.

Jointly presented by the Ningbo Maitreya Museum, the Sichuan Museum, and the Mt. Emei Museum, the exhibition also showcases Buddhist sculptures dating from the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) onward. Interactive digital installations further enrich the experience, bringing centuries-old cultural treasures vividly to life.