Imagine uncovering an ancient treasure and seeing it travel across the globe… The Zidanku Silk Manuscripts – two amazing scrolls from the Warring States Period – have just completed their epic 79-year journey back to China 🇨🇳.
First discovered in 1942 in a Chu tomb at Zidanku, Changsha, these scrolls – 'Wuxing Ling' and 'Gongshou Zhan' – offer a peek into life 2,300 years ago. But in 1946 they were smuggled out of the Chinese mainland and landed in the US, kicking off decades of mystery.
Fast forward to May 18: The Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art handed over the two volumes to China’s National Cultural Heritage Administration in a moment charged with emotion and historical significance. After thoughtful talks, the manuscripts finally arrived in Beijing, ready for their permanent home at the Hunan Museum.
Chase Robinson, Director of the Smithsonian museum, called the transfer 'a milestone in our century-long partnership,' highlighting how cultural ties can bridge nations and bring history home. 🙌
Now safely archived at the Hunan Museum, these texts aren’t just relics – they’re keys to understanding ancient art, politics and daily life. Scholars can dive deep, and visitors can marvel at silk that’s survived millennia. Talk about a flashback! ⏳✨
This return isn’t just about two scrolls. It’s a celebration of shared heritage, international teamwork, and the power of preserving our global story. 🌏🧡
Reference(s):
Zidanku Silk Manuscripts return to China through Sino-US cooperation
cgtn.com
