A hidden library in the desert revealed a masterpiece of Tang dynasty textile art.
In short: Explore the history of the Vulture Peak embroidery, a rare textile discovered within a sealed cave at Dunhuang. This video examines the significance of this artifact and its journey from a remote mountain retreat to the British Museum collection.
The Vulture Peak embroidery originates from the Tang dynasty, which spanned from AD 618 to 907. It illustrates the Buddha delivering a sermon at his traditional sanctuary, Vulture Peak, a location identified in modern geography as being in north-east India.
The artifact was recovered by Sir Aurel Stein, who lived from 1862 to 1943. During his expeditions, Stein located a concealed chamber within the Dunhuang cave complex that contained a vast cache of textiles, paintings, and manuscripts. This specific embroidery was later gifted to the British Museum as part of the collection curated by Stein.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Conserving Vulture Peak | Episode 2: Curatorial introduction
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/history-conserving-vulture-peak-episode-2-curatorial-introduction.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in Archaeology · More in History · Latest · A–Z · All topics
