麦积山石窟艺术展亮相上海，它为何未遭外来破坏偷盗？

Core Viewpoint - The exhibition "Through Time and Space: The Millennium Echo of Maijishan Grotto Art" showcases 137 exquisite pieces from the Maijishan Grottoes, highlighting its significance as a well-preserved cultural heritage site in China [1][3]. Summary by Sections Exhibition Overview - The exhibition opened on July 21 at the Shanghai Baolong Art Museum, featuring 137 items, including 62 precious cultural relics and 12 first-class artifacts [1][3]. - It includes replicas of three significant caves from Maijishan, along with 37 contemporary artworks by 33 artists that resonate with the grotto art [3]. Historical Significance - Maijishan Grottoes, located in Gansu Tianshui, are one of the "Four Great Grottoes of China," with a history spanning over 1,600 years across 12 dynasties [1][3]. - The site is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the "Silk Road: The Network of Roads from Chang'an to the Tianshan Corridor" since 2014 [1]. Artistic Features - The grottoes contain 221 caves, 3,938 sculptures, and over 1,000 square meters of murals, primarily made of mud sculptures due to the local geological conditions [3]. - The artistic styles evolved from the Western Regions during the Later Qin period to the more rounded forms of the Sui and Tang dynasties, showcasing a strong cultural continuity [3]. Notable Artworks - The exhibition features a unique mud sculpture of Vimalakirti, which reflects the aspirations of the Northern Wei literati for social status [5]. - The "thin meat sculpture" technique, combining sculpture and mural painting, is a distinctive feature of Maijishan, offering a three-dimensional viewing experience [5]. Conservation Efforts - The remote location and steep terrain of Maijishan have contributed to its preservation from significant human damage [6]. - Historical conservation efforts began in the late 1970s, leading to the establishment of visitor pathways and protective measures for the grottoes [6][9]. Key Figures - Feng Guozhui, a pivotal figure in the study and preservation of Maijishan, initiated significant research and conservation efforts starting in 1941, leading to the grottoes' recognition [8][9]. - The establishment of the "Tianshui Maijishan Grottoes Construction and Management Committee" in 1947 marked the beginning of organized conservation work [9]. Exhibition Details - The exhibition runs from July 22 to October 26 at the Shanghai Baolong Art Museum, providing an opportunity for the public to engage with this rich cultural heritage [9].