Twin Stars Illuminating the World: The Ancient Shu Civilization of the Sanxingdui and Jinsha Sites

Boasting sublime landscapes and rich culture, the Sichuan Basin nurtured the splendid ancient Shu civilization epitomized by the Sanxingdui and Jinsha sites as early as 4,000 years ago. Sharing a continuous cultural lineage, the two sites were the largest capital-city sites with the richest culture of their periods within the Yangtze River basin. They jointly represent the pinnacle of China's Bronze Age. Their discoveries and excavations not only confirm the origin and center of the ancient Shu civilization, but provide key archaeological proof for the hallmark of Chinese civilization: unity in diversity.

 

Presenting over 200 exquisite objects (sets) unearthed from the Sanxingdui and Jinsha sites, this exhibition is organized into four sections: "Stunning Treasures," "The World of Humans and Gods," "Bridging Heaven and Earth" and "Integration and Mutual Learning." They showcase the archaeological journey and the rich cultural legacy of the two sites, reflect the daily life and spiritual world of the ancient Shu people and reveal the close connection of civilizations between the ancient Shu and the Central Plains and the middle-lower Yangtze River regions. Highlights include a bronze human head with a gold mask, bronze masks, bronze standing figures, a cylindrical bronze object with a dragon on top and a jade zhang tablet incised with ivory-carrying figures. Together, these masterpieces show us the splendor of ancient Shu society and the magnificent vision of Chinese civilization seeking harmony in diversity.

 

It is hoped visitors could be led into the mysterious ancient Shu world to explore its wonder and to feel the brilliance of Chinese civilization. May the wisdom and strength drawn from this journey connect the past and the present and illuminate our path forward.

 

The exhibition is on view in Galleries S8 and S9 of the NMC and will remain open to the public for seven months.