In an inspiring plea for heritage preservation, UCLA professor Lothar von Falkenhausen recently urged the reuniting of the Chu Silk Manuscripts—ancient texts from the Zidanku site in Changsha, dating back over 2,300 years. These priceless artifacts, traditionally woven into silk, offer a unique window into classical Chinese thought and culture.
Professor von Falkenhausen, a leading scholar in Chinese archaeology, emphasized that the manuscripts must be viewed and preserved as a complete work. Although two volumes have been returned to the Chinese mainland by the Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art in May, they remain in fragments. The most complete piece, volume I, is still held abroad. He argues that "history is calling" for this first volume to come home, reuniting a fragmented legacy.
Adding extra excitement, the long-awaited English edition of The Chu Silk Manuscripts from Zidanku, Changsha (Hunan Province) has been published by the Chinese University of Hong Kong Press. Co-translated by Professor von Falkenhausen and Donald Harper from the University of Chicago, this edition has opened up the ancient treasure to a global audience. ✨📜
This passionate call to reunite historical antiquity is sparking conversation among history buffs, culture enthusiasts, scholars, and young entrepreneurs alike. It’s a reminder that our past threads weave into our present identity, inviting us to learn, preserve, and celebrate a shared legacy. 🌟
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
