Largest set of murals in Shaanxi province regain former glory

After three years of renovations, the largest collection of murals ever found in Shaanxi province has regained its former splendour.(File Photo)

After three years of renovations, the largest collection of murals ever found in Shaanxi province has regained its former splendour.(File Photo)

After three years of renovations, the largest collection of murals ever found in Shaanxi province has regained its former splendour. The set of murals, created during the Qing dynasty around 150 years ago, was uncovered in a former trade union building.

These murals, testimony of the glory of a trade union during the Qing dynasty, miraculously survived the cultural revolution. The building was converted into a warehouse in 1952, and the murals were covered in mud. They are believed to be the largest, best preserved murals ever found in Shaanxi.

Ma Linyan, Researcher of Shaanxi Research Inst. of Cultural Heritages, said, "There are nine pieces in total. Murals on such a scale and of such status are rare in the region."

Stories including the legends of Three Kingdoms and the 24 stories of filial piety are among the depictions seen in the murals.

Bai Ke, Associate Researcher, Shaanxi Research Inst. of Cultural Heritages, said, "The stability of these murals was uncertain before renovation. Colours were peeling away and the walls were damaged because of water and salt."

The renovations began in 2011 after the murals were revealed when the layers of mud peeled away following heavy rainfall. A team of experts from both home and abroad have executed the renovation.