#China #Beijing #Zhejiang University #Dunhuang Silks #Chinese Silk Art

Discovering the Legacy of Dunhuang Silk Art

On December 22, 2025, a notable symposium titled "Textiles from Dunhuang and A Comprehensive Collection of Chinese Silks" took place in Beijing, marking a significant milestone in the exploration and documentation of Dunhuang's rich textile heritage. This prestigious event was hosted jointly by the School of Social Sciences, the School of Art and Archaeology, and the Silk Art and Silk Roads Research Centre from Zhejiang University, alongside contributions from the Beijing Research Institute of the same university.

Presentation of Accomplishments

The event's opening was led by Professor Zhao Feng, who serves as the Editor-in-Chief for both Textiles from Dunhuang and the Comprehensive Collection of Chinese Silks. Professor Zhao provided an insightful overview of these two significant projects, elaborating on their compilation processes, academic features, and the insights gained from global research collaborations.

The Textiles from Dunhuang project, a monumental endeavor nearing its conclusion in 2024, spanned nearly two decades. It aimed to catalog the silk artifacts originating from Dunhuang that are now scattered across various global locations. Throughout its exploration, a staggering six volumes were published, encompassing collections from the UK, France, Russia, and China, paired with important research papers. This comprehensive undertaking scrutinized over 600 complete silk pieces alongside 2,230 fragments, offering profound insights incorporating technological, artistic, and historical perspectives. It stands as the principal reference point for studies concerning Dunhuang silks, significantly contributing to not only Dunhuang studies but also broader Silk Roads and textile studies.

Comprehensive Collection of Chinese Silks

In parallel, the first twelve volumes of the Comprehensive Collection of Chinese Silks were introduced, showcasing an impressive array of more than 2,000 silk artworks dating from the Warring States period to the present day. This project is heralded as the first of its kind, representing a comprehensive investigation into Chinese silk arts as found across global collections. Over the next decade, the research team plans to examine collections across 80+ museums and institutions, both domestically and internationally, to gather crucial data on an estimated 20,000 Chinese silk art objects. This ambitious project aims for a final publication spanning 100 volumes, which will serve as invaluable primary sources for scholars within the realms of Chinese and global art history, archaeology, and the study of the Silk Road. The implications of this research reach far, aiding in the understanding and revitalization of traditional Chinese art, alongside fostering innovation in modern fashion and product design.

Academic Exchange and Collaboration

The symposium attracted a multitude of experts from leading universities, research institutes, art schools, and museums throughout China, aiming to create a dynamic platform for interdisciplinary and interregional academic exchanges. This initiative recognizes and promotes research in Chinese silk art as a vital component in the evolving discipline of Chinese art history. The discussions facilitated among attendees underscore the collaborative spirit driving this scholarly exploration.

In conclusion, the recent symposium in Beijing marked a pivotal moment in the discourse surrounding Dunhuang textiles and Chinese silk art. As researchers continue to unravel the intricacies of silk's history and cultural significance, the symbiotic relationship between past and present art forms will undoubtedly inspire future generations of artists and historians alike.