Abstract: The Dunhuang murals, as the jewels of ancient Chinese art, represent a rich repository of history, culture, art, and religious heritage, whose value is immeasurable. The pigments used in these murals, meticulously selected from natural minerals, bring unparalleled color and texture to the Dunhuang paintings. A deeper understanding of the characteristics of these pigments aids in the appreciation of the profound layers of art, culture, and history, and serves as the foundation for the preservation and restoration of the murals. This article employs a vivid, anthropomorphic narrative to make the origins of the colors in the Mogao Caves’ murals accessible and understandable. It focuses on elucidating the typical mineral pigments used and their sources, with the aim of promoting the conservation of these murals, as well as the popularization, dissemination, and heritage of cultural treasures.

Key words: Dunhuang murals, Mineral pigments, Popularization of science, Preservation of cultural relics