Infrared spectroscopy, AMS 14C dating, X-ray fluorescence and scanning electron microscopy were used to understand the gilding and adhesive materials and state of preservation of the one-thousand-hand Buddha statue at Dazu Grotto, at Baoding mountain, Chongqing. Analysis suggested that remaining gilding layers above layer 0 were all applied as decorative layers after the Qing Dynasty. The gilding adhesive had aged to a certain extent but erosion and deterioration was not severe as long as it was swelled with water. HgS had been mixed with the gilding adhesive to enhance the gold color, which is a traditional technique. The research results provided scientific information that will aid future statue conservation.