Unfortunately, we don't take advantage of these art offerings as often as we should or we would like. Sometimes an exhibit I had wanted to see will end before I remember to go and see it.
But yesterday afternoon, we made it to a new exhibit that opened on the 15th at the Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University's Tophane-i Amire Culture & Arts Center, located by the Tophane tramway stop. This exhibit, The Colours of Dunhuang - The Magical Door Opening to the Silk Road, features historical artifacts and paintings from the ancient Dunhuang Caves in the Gansu province of northern China. It's also the first time the exhibit, which is noted for its distinctive Buddhist elements, is being shown in Europe!
We both knew nothing about this area, but I can tell you after seeing this exhibit, I definitely want to visit China!
 | |||
| This 14-meter Buddha can be found in one of the Dunhuang Caves in China. From the sign: "The Buddha is lying on his right, which is one of the standard sleeping poses of a monk or nun." |
The exhibit features the famous, sacred Mogao Cavesnear Dunhuang - a total of 812 have been discovered. Starting in the 4th century, the caves were used as a place of meditation by monks. Later, the caves became a place of worship and pilgrimage for the public. Family members or neighbors would pitch in in order to have a cave built for themselves. These caves were elaborately painted and decorated with intricate statues; and you can see some of the replications at this exhibit.
 |
| Built during 705-781 AD, this cave is considered one of the most outstanding caves in all of China. It showcases the Buddhism beliefs, incorporated with the royal architecture. |
 |
| "The Heavenly King" is a mural found in Mogao Cave no. 15, which dates to 781-845 AD. |
It was interesting to admire the artwork and learn about a new place. However, some of the ancient artwork was quite morbid and revolved around violent deaths. Not really my cup of tea!
 | |
| I didn't really understand this one. One such odd painting was "The Hungry Tigress" where the tigress prepares to eat the prince which sacrificed himself to her to save his people. |
One of the highlights of the day was seeing a traditional Chinese music and dance performance by traditionally dressed young Chinese women. Through this Wednesday, you can catch this lively performance at 3 and 6 p.m.
 |
| Young and old Turks watched as performers played traditional music and danced. |
The Colours of Dunhuang allows you to travel back in time to an area in China you might not have ever heard of, if you're like us.
The exhibit is definitely worth checking out!
The Tophane exhibit is open now through January 7. Cost is 10 tl for adults; 5 for students.
 |
| As you exit the Tophane-i Amire Culture & Arts Center, you are greeted with an amazing view of the Kili� Ali Pasha Mosque across the street. |
Meanwhile, Topkapi Palace also is hosting an exhibition called the �Treasures of Ancient China,� which features 5,000-year-old Chinese relics including four soldier statues from the world �famous Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses. The four terra cotta soldiers on display have never been taken out of China. The exhibition is part of the ongoing Chinese Culture Year in Turkey. This exhibit is open until February 23, 2013.
