Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the dedication and innovative methods employed by Chen Huili, a researcher at the Dazu Rock Carvings Research Institute, in the preservation and restoration of ancient stone carvings, emphasizing the integration of traditional techniques with modern technology to ensure the longevity of these cultural artifacts [1][4][8]. Group 1: Background and Experience - Chen Huili has been in the field of stone relic restoration for 30 years, combining knowledge from history, archaeology, and chemistry with hands-on skills in carving and painting [2][4]. - She has developed a diagnostic method called the "Four Diagnostic Methods," which includes visual inspection, olfactory assessment, inquiry, and tactile examination to identify over 20 types of damage to artifacts with an accuracy rate exceeding 95% [3][4]. Group 2: Challenges and Innovations - In 2008, Chen faced significant challenges when tasked with the restoration of the Avalokiteshvara statue, which had 34 types of damage and 440 areas of deterioration [4][6]. - To enhance the restoration process, she introduced over 20 high-tech diagnostic methods, including 3D scanning and X-ray imaging, leading to the creation of the first digital medical record for rock cave restoration in China [4][5]. Group 3: Restoration Process - The restoration of the Avalokiteshvara statue involved extensive experimentation over eight years, including the use of 1,050 kilograms of reinforcing materials and 1,000 kilograms of lacquer for gold leaf application [6][8]. - The meticulous process included filling out 1,032 investigation forms, entering 35,000 data points, and creating 297 hand-drawn damage maps, showcasing the depth of research and effort involved [6][8]. Group 4: Legacy and Future - Chen Huili emphasizes the importance of passing on knowledge and skills to future generations, having trained over 20 professional restorers through various educational initiatives [8][9]. - She authored a 450,000-word book on the exploration and practice of Dazu Rock Carving protection, contributing to the establishment of local standards for stone relic restoration in China [8][9].

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].