Discover the rich cultural crossroads of ancient China at the East Branch of Shanghai Museum with the grand opening of The Spiraling Glory: Treasures from Guyuan, Ningxia.
The exhibition marks a milestone in cultural exchange between eastern and northwestern China. Co-hosted by leading institutions from Shanghai and Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, the event celebrates the deep historical ties and mutual inspiration between the regions through over 300 rare artifacts, many unveiled to the public for the first time.
Drawn from prestigious museums and archeological institutes across Guyuan, the exhibition spans from the Western Zhou (1046-771 BC) to the Tang Dynasty (618-907), reflecting a rich legacy of cultural fusion.
Divided into three sections, it showcases ancient bronzes, glassware, mural paintings, Sogdian burial treasures, and Silk Road relics. Highlights include newly excavated Western Zhou bronzeware from the Yaohuayuan site, a Sassanian-style glass bowl, and Sogdian gold ornaments that reveal deep East-West connections.
Sassanian-style glass bowl
Sogdian gold ornaments
Innovative exhibition design enhances the visitor experience through immersive layouts, multimedia storytelling, and rich color symbolism. The triangular visual motif throughout the gallery represents Guyuan's strategic and cultural significance across time.
Visitors can also enjoy nearly 200 themed cultural products – from plush toys and art prints to limited-edition stamps – offering tangible memories of the show.
Dates: July 9-November 17
Venue: Shanghai Museum East 上海博物馆东馆
Address: 1952 Century Avenue 世纪大道1952号