A hidden relief of Flying Apsaras was discovered at Kuqa Grand Canyon, located in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, according to Kucha Research Institute of Xinjiang. (Photo: VCG)

Carved on a rock wall about two meters above ground, this U-shaped relief, with about two meters long and one meter wide, is the first and sole relief found in Kuqa. 

Meng Xingwang, head of Kuqa Grand Canyon scenic spot, stated that the image resembles those reflected in Kucha culture, though its head ornaments differ from those in Kucha frescos. 

He added that its long ribbons are instead characteristic of the Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 AD) culture. 

But according to Miao Lihui, researcher at Kucha Research Institute of Xinjiang, the authenticity of the relief is yet to be determined.