Ancient art, new bridge

In late July, the Georgian National Museum welcomed an impressive new addition to its exhibitions, garnering great interest from residents in this Caucasian country.

As a part of the 2026 Civilization Bridge Program, an initiative launched by the National Cultural Heritage Administration for overseas exhibitions of Chinese cultural relics, a showcase of Shanxi's ancient bronze ware made its debut in this museum in Tbilisi on July 20.

Under the theme "From the Yellow River to the Caucasus — A Special Exhibition of Shanxi's Bronze Civilization in Georgia", the collection includes 36 pieces or sets of bronze ware, dating from around the 16th century BC to the 3rd century AD.

This exhibition is jointly organized by Shanxi Museum and the Georgian National Museum, supported by China's National Cultural Heritage Administration and sponsored by the Belt and Road Cultural Development Association. It will run until Oct 18.

On the opening day of the exhibition, Liang Yujun, deputy curator of Shanxi Museum, hosted a seminar to introduce the aesthetics, significance and characteristics of Shanxi's bronze ware to the local audience.

Liang said that, in ancient times, bronze was recognized as an auspicious metal and bronze ware was an important part of the ancient ritual system.

"Shanxi is one of the places where the largest numbers of ancient Chinese bronze items have been discovered," he said. "This exhibition of Shanxi's bronze relics will help visitors better understand ancient Chinese civilization."

According to Liang, the exhibition is divided into three sections focusing on artistic aesthetics, ritual system and production techniques.

The exhibits fall into such categories as ding — tripod cauldrons; gui — round-mouthed food vessels; ge — dagger axes; and daigou — robe hooks.

The displayed items mostly feature clear patterns, showing the high technical level in bronze ware production in ancient China.