More than 80 stone carvings and building units were discovered in the Leigutai caves of the Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang, Henan province.
The Longmen Grottoes boast a history of over 1,500 years. According to the Longmen Grottoes Research Institute, the Leigutai caves, located on the east hill of the grottoes, mark the site of the earliest group of excavations.
"This marks a concentrated excavation of stone statues in the archaeological work of the Longmen Grottoes, representing the first instance of such statues being found in the walls of ancient maintenance projects," said Lu Wei, director of the history and humanities research center at the institute.
Several of the relics, some of substantial size, showcase intricate carvings and bear traces of colorful paint. Among the remarkable finds is a well-preserved stone Buddha head, measuring 38 centimeters tall and 22 centimeters wide.
"The head sculpture is exquisitely crafted. The face is round and plump and exudes a particularly serene expression," Lu said.
The relics were found stacked and embedded in a wall. Judging from its appearance and the materials used, the wall was constructed much later during renovation work, Lu noted, adding that the bricks used in its construction dated back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644).
This discovery improves our understanding of the Tang Dynasty statues at the Longmen Grottoes, as well as our knowledge of the history and culture of the Leigutai area, ancient maintenance and reinforcement practices, seismic history, and the economic and social conditions of the time, Lu said.
He added, "It is of great significance for furthering research on the protection of the Longmen Grottoes."
