A duplicate from the treasured collection of ancient thangkas, Biography of Phagpa.[Photo provided to China Daily]

　　Among the exhibits is a collection of 17 duplicates of treasured ancient thangkas called Biography of Phagpa. Phagpa was a Tibetan Buddhist leader who became imperial preceptor of the central government, the first in the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368).

　　This is the first time the collection has been showcased to the public. The works were duplicated using high-resolution printing technology, according to Zhang Junyan, a curator of the exhibition.

　　"The original works, which were created in the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties, are precious items stored in the Sakya Temple," said Zhang. "According to tradition, these original artworks were sealed away by five locks that can only be opened by three monks."

　　The value of the collection lies not only in the fine brushwork used but also in that it recorded the important history of Sakya and its connection to the country, noted Zhang.