The Artistic Integration of Dunhuang Tuofo and Tuota Caca and Its Living Heritage Protection Pathways

Xiaoran Guo

doi:10.62177/chst.v3i1.1263

Authors

Xiaoran Guo Lanzhou Univerity

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.62177/chst.v3i1.1263

Keywords:

Dunhuang, Tuofo Caca, Tuota Caca, Artistic Integration, Living Heritage Protection

Abstract

As unique carriers of ancient Chinese Buddhist art, Dunhuang Tuofo (molded Buddha images) and Tuota Caca (molded pagoda images) embody rich religious significance and artistic value. This paper examines the multidimensional integration characteristics of Caca artifacts in terms of formal language, craftsmanship techniques, and cultural symbolism from the perspective of artistic fusion, analyzing the distinctive artistic system formed through historical evolution. On this basis, the paper further explores the theoretical framework and practical pathways for living heritage protection, proposing feasible strategies for the inheritance and innovation of traditional craftsmanship in contemporary contexts, with the aim of providing references for the sustainable development of Dunhuang cultural heritage.

Downloads

Download data is not yet available.

References

Guo, M., & Zhang, J. (2015). Research on Caca unearthed from the northern section of Mogao Caves, Dunhuang. Wenbo, (5), 34–41.

Tucci, G. (2009). The gods of northern Buddhism (M. [Trans.]). Shanghai Ancient Books Publishing House. (Original work published [Year not specified])

Peng, J., & Wang, J. (2004). The northern grottoes of Mogao Caves, Dunhuang (Vol. 3). Cultural Relics Publishing House.

Li, L. (2013). Further research on Caca and Shanye Ni: Studies on image types of Caca in Han regions. Palace Museum Journal, (2), 210–225.

Zhang, Z. (2019). The art of Western Xia pagoda-style Caca statuary. Western Xia Studies, (1), 138–146.

Tan, C. (1989). Impressing sand, Tuofo, and Tuota. Dunhuang Research, (1), 19–29.

Zhang, Z. (2020). Research on Western Xia Caca [Doctoral dissertation, Ningxia University]. Yinchuan.

Tang, S. (2011). Dunhuang in palm, treasure of snowland: Aesthetic image analysis of Tibetan cultural relics Caca and Zhaga in the collection of Chongqing China Three Gorges Museum. Yangtze River Civilization, (1), 101–108, 2.