The Standing Buddha sculpture from the Yungang Grottoes is exhibited at the Guimet Museum in Paris. [Photo/Datong Daily]

The once-lost sculptures of the Yungang Grottoes have found a renewed presence in Paris, captivating visitors at the Guimet and Cernuschi museums.

The Yungang Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are renowned for their intricate Buddhist carvings that date back over 1,500 years. Among these treasures, two significant sculptures — the Standing Buddha sculpture from Cave 30 and the Cross-Legged Maitreya sculpture from Cave 16 — were illicitly removed in the early 20th century.

Today, they grace the halls of Parisian museums, where their serene expressions continue to tell stories of artistic brilliance and historical upheaval.

Yin Yanxin, a French resident from Qingdao, Shandong province, embarked on a visit  to these museums in January 2025. His visit, driven by a strong connection to his roots, emphasizes the lasting appeal of these artifacts.

These sculptures stand as enduring testaments to the artistry of ancient Chinese craftsmen and the complex narratives of cultural heritage, underscoring the ongoing dialogue between past and present and inviting reflection on the preservation and appreciation of global cultural treasures.