韩城大禹庙, National temple complex in Hancheng, China.
This temple is a complex of connected buildings in Hancheng dedicated to Da Yu, with multiple halls and pavilions throughout the grounds. The interior walls display about 168 detailed caisson paintings that show traditional Chinese artistic techniques and patterns.
The original structure was built in 1301 during the Yuan Dynasty as a place to honor Da Yu. Major reconstruction took place in 1579 during the Ming Dynasty, which shaped the complex into its present form.
The temple shows how local people honored Da Yu, the legendary figure who controlled waters, connecting their daily lives to ancient history. The statues and inscriptions throughout the halls tell his story through visual representations.
The complex is open daily to visitors and can be reached by local transportation from central Hancheng. Guided tours in multiple languages are available to help you understand the artwork and structures throughout the site.
The caisson paintings were created on unusual materials like bamboo paper and hemlock wood using historical pigments such as cinnabar. This combination of rare materials and pigments makes the artworks particularly delicate and valuable.
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