Facelift for Ming Buddhist Scriptures
by Liu Fang, CCTV.com, July 11, 2008
Beijing, China -- A collection of ancient Buddhist Scriptures with a history dating more than six hundred years was presented to the public Monday. All of the works have undergone a two-year restoration.
<< A collection of ancient Buddhist Scriptures with a history dating more than six hundred years was presented to the public Monday.(Photo: CCTV.com)
Experts say the latest work should keep the delicate scriptures intact for another five hundred years.
The 181 Buddhist Scriptures of the Ming Dynasty are among the most valuable of China's national treasures. Their status was belied by their condition before the repairs were undertaken. The restoration work has helped to return the documents to something of their original condition and will provide them with better protection.
The renewal project began in September 2006. The American Embassy in Beijing lent a helping hand, providing over fifty thousand US dollars for the project.
Experts say the restoration work is part of a major effort to preserve the historical value of the Ming Dynasty pieces. The experts say the present endeavour should ensure that the inscriptions survive for another five hundred years.