The middle bank of the Yangzi River is one of the most significant cradles of Chinese civilization and is, today, a vibrant area for study of Chinese bronze culture. Several significant excavations over the past decades have facilitated the examination of undeveloped aspects of this culture through exquisite bronze vessels from the Hunan Provincial Museum. This exhibition explored regional culture along the Yangzi River in three parts: the development and characteristics of regional bronzes, their function and patronage, and their cultural connection to central China. By presenting more than seventy technically sophisticated Chinese bronzes, including animal-shaped ritualistic vessels, ornate percussion instruments, bells with intricate patterns, and finely decorated swords and axes, this exhibition revealed the fascinating story of this region.
This exhibition is made possible, in part, by public funds from the National Endowment for the Arts, the New York State Council on the Arts; and the generous support of Mary Lawrence Porter and China Institute Friends of the Gallery.
