Classifying and Applying Tang Dynasty Dunhuang Motifs: A Design Research Framework for Digital Textile Printing in Contemporary Fashion

Jiamei  Wang; Suphichaya  Suppipat; Kanwipa  Methanuntakul

Authors

Jiamei Wang Faculty of Architecture, Chulalongkorn University, Thailand
Suphichaya Suppipat Faculty of Architecture, Chulalongkorn University, Thailand
Kanwipa Methanuntakul Faculty of Architecture, Chulalongkorn University, Thailand

Keywords:

Traditional Chinese motifs, Dunhuang Tang dynasty, Fashion design, Digital textile printing

Abstract

The Mogao Caves in Dunhuang, China, have been listed as a World Cultural Heritage Site and have become a brilliant pearl in the world's history of art. However, the survival status of traditional murals in Dunhuang is not optimistic. Given various factors, such as natural weathering, human damage, and poor management, the original appearance of many murals has become very difficult to restore, leading to a significant loss of cultural heritage and artistic value in the region. This study seeks to investigate the motif types, color characteristics, and structural forms of traditional Dunhuang motifs from the Tang dynasty. It employs a literature review to explore the subject matter types, color characteristics, and structural forms of traditional motifs in the Dunhuang region during the Tang dynasty. On this basis, its application in fashion was realized through digital textile printing technology. As an intangible cultural heritage, the traditional motifs of Dunhuang from the Tang dynasty can serve as unique design elements in the context of fashionable culture and be developed into sustainable technical designs for society and culture. Four main types of the motifs of Dunhuang from the Tang dynasty have been identified: plant motifs, animal motifs, natural motifs, and geometric motifs. Five design proposals have been developed and presented.

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