Core Viewpoint - The excavation of two Tang Dynasty dragon heads in Xiong'an, Hebei, represents a significant archaeological find, as such artifacts are extremely rare and provide insights into ancient Chinese craftsmanship and cultural heritage [4][5]. Group 1: Archaeological Discovery - Two Tang Dynasty dragon heads, referred to as No. 9 and No. 10, were unearthed from the ancient city site in Xiong'an, marking a rare find as few such artifacts exist in China [4]. - The dragon heads are made of pottery and are relatively well-preserved compared to other finds from regions like Heilongjiang, Shandong, and Henan [4]. Group 2: Research and Restoration Process - The dragon heads were sent to the Key Laboratory of Archaeological Science and Cultural Heritage Protection at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences for restoration and research [4]. - Initial cleaning and data collection involved multi-angle 3D imaging to document the condition and location of the fragments, followed by extraction, cleaning, desalting, and drying processes [4][5]. Group 3: Material Analysis - Testing revealed that the firing temperature of the dragon heads was approximately 686 degrees Celsius, with various pigments identified, including manganese for black, vermilion for red, copper for green, and lead for white [5]. - The analysis also uncovered the presence of straw and pottery fragments within the body of the dragon heads, as well as fingerprints of the potter on the No. 10 dragon head [5]. Group 4: Virtual Reconstruction - A collaborative effort with Beijing Institute of Technology utilized 3D laser scanning for data collection, leading to virtual reconstruction of the dragon head fragments [6]. - The restoration team, including students from various universities, successfully pieced together the fragments, although some parts remained missing, which were later filled with plaster [6]. Group 5: Cultural Significance - The successful restoration of the dragon heads adds a new category to the representation of ancient Chinese dragon imagery and provides valuable materials for studying Tang Dynasty architectural components [6]. - This find also reinforces the historical continuity of the Xiong'an New Area, contributing to the understanding of its millennia-old cultural heritage [6].

Group 1 - The core viewpoint emphasizes the importance of coordinating material and spiritual civilization as a key feature of Chinese modernization, highlighting the continuous improvement in societal awareness and moral standards since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China [1] - The article introduces Guo Hanzhong, a senior technician in cultural relic restoration at the Sanxingdui Museum, who has dedicated 41 years to reviving over 6,000 ancient artifacts, showcasing the renewed value orientation and moral standards in contemporary China [1][3] - Guo Hanzhong's innovative restoration techniques, including traditional soldering combined with modern riveting and pouring methods, were crucial in reconstructing the nearly 4-meter tall bronze sacred tree, which was found in over 200 fragmented pieces [3][6] Group 2 - Guo Hanzhong has invented over a hundred tools tailored for different types of cultural relic damage, significantly enhancing the efficiency of the restoration process [6][8] - He developed wax mold solidification technology, which was instrumental in safely extracting hundreds of decayed ivory pieces from a newly discovered sacrificial pit at the end of 2019 [8] - Guo Hanzhong emphasizes the importance of knowledge transfer to his apprentices, advocating for a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology, and has established a master workshop for cultural relic restoration skills to cultivate young professionals in the field [10]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the urgent and complex restoration efforts of the Thousand-Hand Guanyin statue at the Dazu Rock Carvings, highlighting the challenges faced and innovative techniques employed in the preservation process [1][2][3]. Group 1: Restoration Challenges - The Thousand-Hand Guanyin statue, carved between 1174 and 1252, has suffered significant damage over the years, exacerbated by the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake, leading to a complex array of deterioration issues [1][2]. - The statue's restoration is complicated due to its multi-material composition and the severe environmental conditions, resulting in various forms of damage including peeling gold leaf and crumbling stone [2][3]. Group 2: Innovative Techniques - The restoration team utilized a combination of traditional Chinese medicine diagnostic methods and modern technology, including industrial X-ray and 3D scanning, to assess the statue's condition and identify over 34 types of damage [4][5][6]. - The team documented their findings extensively, creating over 300 damage maps and filling out more than 1,000 damage investigation forms, which helped in understanding the statue's intricate structure, including the count of 830 arms [6][7]. Group 3: Material Selection and Application - Initial attempts to use traditional materials like cowhide glue for the gold leaf restoration were unsuccessful due to mold growth in the humid environment of Chongqing, prompting the team to explore local traditional lacquer techniques [8][10]. - The restoration process involved using approximately 1 ton of lacquer and over 1 million sheets of gold leaf, marking a significant investment in materials for the project [18]. Group 4: Team Efforts and Personal Commitment - The restoration team faced numerous physical challenges, including working at great heights and enduring harsh weather conditions, which led to health issues among team members [15][16][17]. - The lead restorer, Chen Huili, emphasized the importance of this project as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to preserve the statue, reflecting a deep commitment to cultural heritage [19][20].

Group 1 - The article discusses the restoration efforts of the Tiger Hill Pagoda in Suzhou, which has been leaning due to uneven ground settlement, earning it the nickname "Chinese Leaning Tower of Pisa" [2][3] - The first restoration in 1953 involved reinforcing the pagoda with reinforced concrete, which inadvertently increased its weight and caused issues with the foundation [3][4] - The second major restoration focused on strengthening the foundation through a combination of techniques including pile encasement and grouting, effectively controlling the settlement and tilt of the pagoda [4][5] Group 2 - After over twenty years post the second restoration, new issues arose such as water seepage and deterioration of the structure, leading to the initiation of a third major restoration in 2011 [5][6] - The third restoration emphasized comprehensive maintenance, including structural preservation, waterproofing, and protection against biological damage, marking a shift from previous emergency repairs to a more holistic approach [5][7] - The restoration process included the construction of scaffolding for access, which was completed in May 2015, allowing for detailed maintenance and repairs to the pagoda [6][7] Group 3 - The third restoration involved extensive work on the pagoda's roof, including cleaning, rust treatment, and the installation of new lightning protection systems [7][8] - The maintenance also addressed structural issues such as cracks and deterioration in the pagoda's body, ensuring that all repairs were conducted with a focus on preserving the original aesthetics [8][9] - A comprehensive survey using 3D laser scanning was implemented to monitor the pagoda's condition accurately, allowing for timely interventions [10] Group 4 - The article also highlights the restoration of the Zhao Zhou Bridge, which has undergone multiple repairs since its construction over 1400 years ago, with the most significant restoration occurring between 1955 and 1956 [12][13] - The restoration of Zhao Zhou Bridge faced debates on whether to maintain its original appearance or to replace severely damaged stones, ultimately leading to a reconstruction that utilized modern techniques while attempting to preserve historical integrity [14][15] - The restoration process included the use of reinforced concrete and waterproofing measures, which, while effective, led to concerns about the loss of historical authenticity [16][19] Group 5 - The article concludes with a focus on the importance of careful restoration practices, emphasizing the need to balance modern techniques with the preservation of historical value, as seen in the ongoing efforts to maintain the Great Wall [24][25] - The work of restoration experts like Cheng Yongmao is highlighted, showcasing a commitment to minimal intervention while ensuring structural safety and historical fidelity [28][29] - The ongoing restoration projects reflect a broader trend in heritage conservation, prioritizing the preservation of cultural significance alongside structural integrity [37]

Core Viewpoint - The 2025 Jiangsu Province Cultural Relics Industry Vocational Skills Selection Competition was held, showcasing the skills of 70 elite participants in various relic restoration fields, emphasizing the integration of traditional techniques with modern scientific approaches [1][4]. Group 1: Competition Overview - The competition featured six categories: metal relic restoration, ceramic relic restoration, paper and painting restoration, wooden relic restoration, mud and tile restoration, and archaeological excavation [1]. - The evaluation system consisted of 20% theoretical assessment and 80% practical competition, testing the comprehensive abilities of the participants [1]. Group 2: Participant Insights - Participants included both seasoned experts and young talents, creating a diverse talent pool in the relic restoration industry [1]. - Experienced metal relic restorer Song Lei highlighted the importance of removing harmful rust and corrosion during the restoration process [1]. - Li Jun, a metal relic restorer with 30 years of experience, emphasized the need for creating restoration archives to document the methods and materials used for future reference [2]. Group 3: Specific Restoration Techniques - Ceramic restorer Zhou Xuan successfully restored a "Qing Powder Color Branch Flower Plate" by using plaster to recreate missing parts and applying a glaze-like coating to match the original shine [2]. - The archaeological excavation project required participants to assess soil samples and document findings, testing their skills in identifying underground layers [3]. - In the paper restoration category, participants crafted colored paper and executed precise techniques to restore artworks, while wooden relic restorers used traditional tools to create intricate components [3]. Group 4: Significance of the Event - The competition, held on International Museum Day, was deemed significant for promoting traditional craftsmanship while integrating modern scientific principles in relic restoration [4]. - The event attracted a youthful and diverse group of participants from museums, archaeological research institutes, and universities, reflecting the vibrant development of cultural heritage protection in Jiangsu [4][5].

Group 1 - The article explores how modern technology, particularly 3D printing and magnetic attachment, is used in the restoration of ancient bronze artifacts, highlighting innovative methods that balance preservation and restoration [1][9][20] - The restoration of the "Beast Face Pattern Bronze Zhai" involved identifying previous alterations and using advanced imaging techniques to guide the repair process, demonstrating the importance of historical context in restoration [3][4][5] - The restoration of the hollow bronze box, which was found in over fifty fragments, showcases the meticulous process of piecing together artifacts while maintaining their original integrity, emphasizing the challenges faced in such restorations [10][11][12] Group 2 - The restoration of the "Phoenix Bird Pattern Ewer" from the tomb of Liu He involved extensive analysis using modern scientific techniques to assess its condition, leading to a careful restoration plan that preserved its historical significance [15][17][18] - The restoration of the Han Dynasty thin-walled bronze basin illustrates the challenges of reshaping and repairing artifacts that have undergone significant deformation, highlighting the use of heat and specialized tools in the restoration process [21][22][24] - The article emphasizes the blend of traditional and modern techniques in the restoration field, showcasing how these methods can enhance the understanding and appreciation of ancient artifacts while ensuring their longevity [20][25]

Group 1: Cultural Heritage Protection and Restoration - The emergence of young "cultural heritage doctors" showcases a blend of tradition and innovation in cultural preservation [4] - The Beijing Archaeological Research Institute employs advanced technology for the diagnosis and treatment of ancient buildings, enhancing their longevity [5][6] - The use of micro-drilling resistance instruments and infrared thermal imaging has improved the accuracy of detecting structural issues in ancient wood structures [5][6] Group 2: Skills Competition and Training - The first Shanghai Municipal Cultural Heritage Skills Competition was held, featuring 22 finalists competing in various restoration techniques [8][9] - The competition included practical assessments of real artifacts, emphasizing the importance of hands-on skills in the restoration process [9][10] - The event aims to cultivate high-skilled talents in the cultural heritage sector and enhance the social impact of restoration techniques [10] Group 3: International Collaboration in Restoration - Chinese "cultural heritage doctors" are actively involved in the restoration of the Angkor Wat site in Cambodia, contributing to international cultural exchange [12][13] - The Zhejiang Ancient Architecture Design Institute is leading restoration efforts, utilizing digital technologies for complex restoration tasks [13][14] - The restoration process emphasizes scientific management and archaeological research to ensure the authenticity and safety of the heritage site [14]

Core Viewpoint - The preservation and restoration of the Dunhuang Mogao Caves' cultural relics are crucial for maintaining historical heritage, with skilled professionals like Liu Tao playing a vital role in this process [1][10]. Group 1: Importance of Cultural Heritage - The Mogao Caves are a popular tourist destination, showcasing exquisite murals and sculptures that reflect ancient social life and the exchange of civilizations along the Silk Road [1]. - Many relics have suffered damage over the centuries, necessitating skilled restoration efforts to ensure their longevity [1]. Group 2: Restoration Expertise - Liu Tao, a seasoned restoration expert, continues to work on the murals in Cave 55, addressing various forms of deterioration [3][10]. - Each restoration specialist possesses a unique set of tools, with Liu Tao having developed many of his own over his 30 years of experience [5]. - The meticulous nature of restoration work requires immense patience and precision, with a strict adherence to a "zero-error" principle [7][10]. Group 3: Evolution of Restoration Techniques - The restoration team at the Dunhuang Research Institute has grown from four members to over a hundred, with a significant proportion of young professionals [12]. - Recent advancements in preservation techniques and concepts have led to significant progress in the protection and restoration of the murals, aiming for long-term preservation and sustainable use [15].

（原标题：生于大地，我们需要为土建筑"撑把伞"｜文物修复） 作者：唐浩莹 马克·米奥多尼克在《迷人的材料》中写道："人类社会每一个新时代都是由一种新材料促 成的。"自从人类在一万年前学会建造房屋和城市以来，生土无疑是世界上使用最广泛的建筑材料之 一。如今，生土的生态价值在全世界范围受到认可和瞩目，对生土的研究与探索，进入了新的里程。 修复师心中的平遥古城 "刀下救平遥"，救的就是平遥古城。 平遥古城，位于山西省晋中市平遥县，是我国现存规模最大、保存最完整的古城之一。在这座有着 2800 多年历史的古城内，纵横交错着 100 多条大街小巷、20 余座古寺庙和将近 4000 户古民居。 1997 年，平遥古城被列入世界文化遗产名录，开创了中国以整座古城列入"世遗"的先河。 联合国教科文组织世界遗产委员会评价说："平遥古城在中国历史的发展中为人们展示了一幅非同寻常 的文化、社会、经济及宗教发展的完整画卷。" 2021 年 10 月，山西出现了有气象记录以来秋季最强的降水，累计降水量超过同期历史极值。受持续强 降雨的影响，平遥古城墙内墙女墙出现 15 处坍塌、46 处夯土大面积滑落。这是平遥古城继 1977 年因 强 ...