Power, Faith, and Craftsmanship: A Study on the Dynamics of the Sinicization ofGrotto Art Taking the Hexi Region as an Example

Power, Faith, and Craftsmanship: A Study on the Dynamics of the Sinicization of

Grotto Art 

——Taking the Hexi Region as an Example

Li Shulin

Abstract:Grotto art initiated the process of sinicization upon its introduction to China. It retained theessence of Indian Buddhist art while integrating Central Plains aesthetics and local thoughts, thusforming an independent aesthetic system. The driving force behind its sinicization lies in the tripleinteraction of "power-belief-technique": ruling groups utilized grotto construction to extend religion asan extension of political power; the integration of Buddhism with Chinese indigenous ideologies suchas Confucianism and Taoism propelled the transformation of grotto art; and the collision betweenChinese and foreign techniques in sculpture, painting, and architecture gave rise to innovations.Studying the driving force behind the sinicization of grotto art not only provides a typical case for themutual learning of ancient civilizations but also offers historical references and theoreticalenlightenment for the protection of contemporary cultural heritage and the innovative development ofChinese culture.

Keywords:  Hexi Corridor; Grotto Art; Aesthetic System; Sinicization

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