Exposed Mural

Mogao Caves, Dunhuang

This exposed mural is located near the modern entrance, between caves #305 and #306. It is painted on what was once the back wall of a cave, but over the centuries the original cave fronts have crumbled away, exposing their interior to the elements; the process of erosion, to which the friable cliff face is especially vulnerable, presents significant challenges to the conservators who are charged with preserving the site.

The guardian deity in the painting is holding a long sword; oddly, his left hand appears to have an extra thumb (closeup).