As the powdered paste traces the lines and builds raised contours, gold leaf is laid on top, the bodhisattva i…
As the powdered paste traces the lines and builds raised contours, gold leaf is laid on top, the bodhisattva in the mural comes to life, and the mortal people's longing becomes something almost within reach.
This process is called "lacquer gilding"—a grand resurrection.
It can preserve a certain dusk forever, and let the person from memory stand once more by the doorway where light and shadow meet, smiling as she waits to come home.