Peking University, April 7, 2023: The Silk Road, which witnessed the exchange and interaction of various civilizations in ancient times, was representative of the Chinese civilization that has flourished through diversity, communication, exchange, and mutual learning. Amongst the many traded products, exported porcelain was a symbol of China's cultural exchanges with countries around the world.

The Arthur M. Sackler Museum of Art and Archaeology at Peking University houses a rich collection of exported porcelain, including national treasures, that have been uncovered from numerous kiln sites. These exported porcelains not only come in different shapes and sizes but also from various historical periods, ranging from the Tang Dynasty (618-907) to the Republic of China period (1912-1949). Some of these cultural relics were inherited from the old collection of Peking University, while others were acquired subsequently through new purchases or donations.

After many years of careful preparation, the Arthur M. Sackler Museum of Art and Archaeology at Peking University will hold a special exhibition this April themed "A Friend Afar Brings a Distant Land Near: Special Exhibition of Peking University’s Collection of Ancient Chinese Exported Porcelain." The special exhibition is part of the Peking University “Silk Road Archaeological Excavation and Civilization Inheritance Research Project” which will showcase more than 300 pieces of Chinese exported porcelain from different dynasties. The exhibition comprises seven sections corresponding to the seven development stages of ancient Chinese exported porcelain. In addition, there will also be a special exhibition showcasing exported porcelain recovered from sunken vessels. The exhibition will serve as a useful touchpoint for participants who wish to gain a deeper understanding of the Silk Road through a comprehensive overview of the developments of Chinese exported porcelain.

Let’s look out for these highlights!

△ Gongyi Kiln White Glazed Bottle (巩义窑白釉穿带瓶)
Tang Dynasty (618-907)
Donated by Mr. Zhao Jing (赵敬先生)

△ Jingdezhen Kiln Blue and White Flower Pattern Jade Vase (景德镇窑青花折枝花卉纹八方玉壶春瓶)
Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368)
Donated by Chen Yong Tai Wen Foundation (财团法人陈永泰文教基金会捐赠)
 
△ Jingdezhen Kiln Pulongke Design Pavilion Plate (景德镇窑粉彩普龙克设计凉亭图盘)
Qing Dynasty (1739-1740)

△ Combo photo of porcelain artworks from the collection

*Exhibition Details 
Location: Arthur M. Sackler Museum of Art and Archaeology at Peking University

Written by: Ang Shao Heng
Edited by: Su Huangyi
Sources: PKU News (Chinese)