Along the Yangzi River: Regional Cultures of the Bronze Age

New York's China Institute presents an exhibition of Chinese bronze culture.

NEW YORK – The first-ever comprehensive exhibition to focus on ancient bronzes from the middle bank of the Yangzi River will be on view at China Institute from January 27 through June 12, 2011.  Along the Yangzi River: Regional Culture of the Bronze Age from Hunan will present more than 70 technically sophisticated Chinese bronzes, including animal-shaped ritualistic vessels, ornate percussion instruments, bells with intricate patterns, and finely decorated swords and axes from the Hunan Provincial Museum.  The landmark exhibition surveys the story of this regional culture in three ways:  the development and characteristics of Hunan bronzes, their function and patronage, and their cultural connection to central China.  A fully illustrated scholarly catalogue will accompany the exhibition.

The middle bank of the Yangzi River—the longest river in Asia and the third largest in the world—is considered one of the most important areas for the historical study of the Chinese Bronze Age culture that flourished there.  Among the bronzes in Along the Yangzi River: Regional Culture of the Bronze Age from Hunan are gems of ancient Chinese bronze-casting, including a vessel with a human face and others with horse, owl, tiger, and elephant shapes, dating from the Shang dynasty (16th -11th century BCE) and the Zhou dynasty (11th century - 3rd century BCE).  Unearthed from pits, tombs, and sites at Shimen, Ningxiang, and Xiangxiang (today in Hunan Province) over the past few decades and as recently as 2004, the objects were found in a 1,000-mile stretch of land along the river.  

“Bronze was the most important material that was accessible to early man,” said Willow Hai Chang, Director of China Institute Gallery.  “The ‘artistic fossils’ in Along the Yangzi River: Regional Culture of the Bronze Age from Hunan serve as reminders that archaeological history is constantly being rewritten.  For example, the Yellow River is traditionally known as the cradle of Chinese civilization, but now the Yangzi River is being seen as another important source.  This unique exhibition will contribute to a fuller understanding of early Chinese culture and civilization.”