From Monastery to Museum—The Journey of the Murals

Painted in the 14th c. and originally on the walls of an unidentified monastery hall in Shanxi, China, the two monumental Buddhist murals now housed at the Penn Museum offer a vivid window into religious and artistic traditions. In this four-week virtual course, Dr. Adam Smith and conservator Morgan Burgess guide you through the remarkable journey of these murals, from sacred origins to contemporary conservation.

Through lectures, discussions, and expert insights, we’ll explore the spread of Buddhism through Asia, how and why monumental artworks like these were created, and how these fragile pieces of history have been preserved, studied, and reinterpreted over time.

Whether you’re curious about the history of religions, fascinated by museum conservation or the workings of the early 20th c. art market, or simply drawn to the beauty of Buddhist art, this course offers a rare opportunity to engage deeply with one of the Penn Museum’s most significant collections.

Week 2: From Monastery to Museum—The Journey of the Murals
Thursday, October 9, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM

Instructor: Dr. Adam Smith
How did monumental murals from China find their way to Philadelphia in the 1920s? Where can we see other examples of murals like this today in museums or in their original buildings? What are the Museum’s responsibilities to care for them and share the stories they tell? Follow the murals’ early 20th-century journey from their original home, via the art market to Philadelphia, and explore the contemporary logistical challenges of preserving and displaying them.

Week 3: Past Treatments and Conservation Histories—A Museum’s Evolving Role
Thursday, October 16, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM

Instructor: Morgan Burgess
This session explores how the murals have been treated and interpreted over the last century. Conservator, Morgan Burgess outlines the history of conservation efforts, the challenges of preserving large-scale painted surfaces, and how earlier treatments shaped both the current condition of the murals and their public presentation.

Week 4: Materials, Analysis, and Treatment—Conserving the Murals in the 21st Century
Thursday, October 23, 6:30 PM – 8:00pm

Instructor: Morgan Burgess
Explore the painstaking and meticulous work undertaken in the current conservation of the murals. Learn how conservators analyze original pigments, binders, and substrates using scientific methods; how materials research guides ethical treatment decisions; and what it takes to stabilize and restore these monumental works for future generations.

Cultivate your curiosity about ancient history, exciting excavations, and cultural heritage connected to the Penn Museum’s unparalleled collection and research. No archaeology or anthropology background required—just bring your love for lifelong learning!

Classes are now streaming on the Visual Experience Platform (VXP), allowing you to interact directly with digital images for a more immersive experience. You’ll also have access to digital readings, videos, and online archival research, as you’ll receive recordings of the live class if you miss a session.