Dunhuang and Venice collaborate on an international standard for mural

Dunhuang and Venice collaborate on an international standard for mural conservation

An ISO working group made up of specialists from more than ten countries, including China and Italy, is developing the first international standard focused on the conservation of mural paintings. The initiative aims to provide unified terminology and classification systems to improve international cooperation and technical exchange.

Why an international standard is needed

Different countries currently use varied terms and categories to describe mural deterioration, which hinders collaborative research, training and intervention planning. The proposed standard will define structural components, typical forms of decay and a systematic classification with illustrated explanations to establish a shared technical language.

Expected benefits

• A common glossary to support cross-border projects and knowledge transfer;
• Guidelines for training programs and funding strategies;
• Frameworks to inform local and international conservation policies;
• Promotion of scientific methods and preventive conservation practices.

Comparing contexts: Mogao Caves and Italian mural traditions

Both China and Italy host exceptionally rich mural heritages, but the physical contexts differ: Italian murals are frequently wall paintings within churches and historic buildings, while many Chinese murals occur inside caves and rock-cut shelters, as at Mogao in Dunhuang.

• Italy: murals on masonry in built environments and urban settings;
• China: cave murals with challenges related to microclimate and access;
• Both: emphasis on preventive conservation and multidisciplinary collaboration.

Technology and preventive care

Environmental monitoring and real-time data collection systems have proven valuable for managing large or sensitive sites. Access to advanced monitoring technologies supports evidence-based decisions and less invasive interventions, strengthening long-term preservation efforts.

Implications for UNESCO heritage sites

UNESCO-listed places such as the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang and the city of Venice can directly benefit from a standardized approach: it improves comparability of assessments, enhances specialist training and facilitates joint conservation and research projects.

Developing an international standard therefore represents a concrete step toward more consistent, collaborative protection of mural heritage worldwide, with positive effects on education, policy and day-to-day site management.