Right line
The Yangzhou Museum, in collaboration with Changshu Museum, is hosting an exhibition showcasing Jiangnan gold and silver wares, which will run until July 8. The display comprises 120 cultural artifacts from both institutions, including 25 national first-, second-, and third-grade cultural relics.
The crafts of making Chinese gold and silver accessories have evolved over the course of millennia. During the Shang and Zhou dynasties (c. 16th century-11th century BC), artisans mainly crafted small ornaments. Inlaying techniques emerged during the Spring and Autumn (770-476 BC) and Warring States (475-221 BC) periods.
Influenced by the Silk Road, these artworks began to incorporate Central Asian stylistic elements during the Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 220). The craft peaked during the Tang Dynasty (618-907), with a diverse array of elaborate artifacts blending foreign and indigenous styles.
During the Song (960-1279) and Yuan (1271-1368) dynasties, the decorative patterns became refined and lifelike. As a symbol of opulence and prosperity of the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties, gold and silver ornaments took on a sense of luxury and intricacy.
Jiangnan gold and silver wares are renowned for their elegance and vividness. Inspired by Jiangnan gardens and painting and calligraphy arts, they are graceful, often featuring motifs such as landscapes, flowers, birds, and poems. Made using various techniques, especially filigree, engraving, and relief craving, and often inlaid with jade and pearls, these pieces embody the subtlety of Jiangnan culture.
A clock-shaped gold headpiece inlaid with colorful gemstones. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]
A gold ornament featuring auspicious clouds, a rising sun, and a phoenix-shaped bird. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]
A gilded plaque depicting a carp leaping over the dragon gate. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]
