Core Viewpoint - The "Dragon Soars China: Hongshan Culture Ancient Civilization Special Exhibition" is currently being held at the Shanghai Museum, showcasing 310 cultural relics from 20 cultural institutions, including 68 first-class and 39 second-class relics [1] Group 1: Cultural Significance - The Hongshan culture, which thrived from approximately 4700 to 2900 BC in the Liao River basin, is recognized for its advanced primitive agriculture, animal husbandry, and unique burial mounds and goddess temple relics [1] - The culture is particularly noted for its exceptional jade craftsmanship, exemplified by the "First Dragon of China," which is described as having a smooth surface and intricate carvings achieved through complex techniques without metal tools [1] Group 2: Artifacts - In addition to jade artifacts, pottery is a significant component of the Hongshan culture, featuring simple yet representative designs such as zigzag patterns and cloud motifs, reflecting the aesthetic preferences and technical skills of the time [2] - A variety of artifacts are displayed, including jade items like the jade pig dragon, jade phoenix, and various pottery forms such as painted pots and jars [4][5][6][7]

Core Viewpoint - The "Longteng China: Hongshan Culture Ancient Civilization Exhibition" has opened at the Shanghai Museum, showcasing over 300 artifacts from 20 cultural and archaeological institutions, highlighting the achievements and discoveries of Hongshan archaeology over the past century [1][2]. Group 1: Exhibition Overview - The exhibition is part of the Shanghai Museum's "Why China" series and features significant artifacts from the Hongshan culture, which dates back approximately 6,500 to 5,000 years [1]. - The Hongshan culture is recognized as one of the earliest archaeological cultures in China to enter a complex social structure and spiritual belief system, marking it as a significant source of Chinese civilization [1][3]. Group 2: Key Artifacts - The exhibition includes notable pieces such as the C-shaped jade dragon and the ring-shaped jade dragon, both representative of the Hongshan culture's jade craftsmanship [1][4]. - The C-shaped jade dragon, carved from a single piece of yellow-green jade, is considered one of the earliest forms of dragon representation in prehistoric jade artifacts [1][5]. - The ring-shaped jade dragon, discovered in 1984, is highlighted as a significant archaeological find from the Niuheliang site in Liaoning [2]. Group 3: Cultural Significance - The first section of the exhibition, "Dragon Out of the Liao River," discusses the origins and characteristics of the Hongshan culture, which emerged in the Liao River basin, blending elements of local fishing and hunting cultures with agricultural traditions from the Central Plains [2]. - The second section, "Dragon Walking in Hongshan," showcases artifacts that reflect the ritual systems and primitive beliefs of the Hongshan people, indicating a transition to a more complex societal structure [3]. - The third section, "Dragon Spreading Across the Nine Provinces," presents a variety of jade artifacts, emphasizing the cultural significance of jade in the Hongshan civilization and its influence on later Chinese cultures [5][6]. Group 4: Exhibition Design - The exhibition's spatial design is inspired by the ritual architecture of the Hongshan culture, featuring a symmetrical layout that connects key artifacts and symbols [6]. - The color scheme of the exhibition hall incorporates "Hongshan Red" and "Graphite Gray," creating an immersive environment that reflects the cultural themes of the Hongshan civilization [6]. Group 5: Duration - The exhibition will be open to the public until October 8 [7].

Core Viewpoint - The exhibition "Dragon Rising China: Special Exhibition of Hongshan Culture Ancient Civilization" at the Shanghai Museum showcases over 300 artifacts, highlighting the significance of dragon totems in Hongshan culture and its role in the origins of Chinese civilization [6][7][12]. Group 1: Exhibition Overview - The exhibition is part of the "What is China" series and features artifacts from 20 museums and archaeological institutions across various provinces [7][12]. - It includes a significant centerpiece, the "C" shaped jade dragon from the Palace Museum, symbolizing the royal aura of the Hongshan culture [8][10]. - The exhibition presents a total of 310 artifacts, with over a quarter being displayed for the first time [12][15]. Group 2: Cultural Significance - Hongshan culture, dating back approximately 6,500 years, is recognized for its advanced ritual systems and the establishment of a belief system centered around reverence for heaven, ancestors, and rulers [8][16]. - The artifacts reflect the early development of Chinese ceremonial practices, including the construction of altars and tombs, which are foundational to Chinese cultural identity [15][17]. - The exhibition aims to enhance public understanding of Hongshan culture and its contributions to the broader narrative of Chinese civilization [18][21]. Group 3: Archaeological Findings - Recent archaeological discoveries, such as the large-scale sacrificial site at the Niuhou Liang site, indicate a complex social structure and belief system in the Hongshan culture [16][17]. - The exhibition features unique artifacts like the "double dragon head jade pendant" and the earliest known stone dragon sculpture, providing insights into the evolution of dragon imagery in Chinese culture [10][11][19]. - The ongoing research and discoveries related to Hongshan culture are expected to further illuminate its role in the development of early Chinese civilization [16][21].

Core Viewpoint - The "Dragon Rising China: Hongshan Culture Ancient Civilization Special Exhibition" has opened at the Shanghai Museum, marking the first and largest exhibition focused on Hongshan culture to date [1] Group 1: Exhibition Overview - The exhibition features 310 precious artifacts, with over a quarter being displayed for the first time [2] - It is part of the Shanghai Museum's "Why China" archaeological exhibition series, created in collaboration with 20 cultural institutions from various regions including Liaoning, Hebei, Inner Mongolia, Beijing, and Tianjin [2] Group 2: Artifacts and Highlights - Notable artifacts include the C-shaped dragon and jade disc dragon, with the former from the Palace Museum and the latter from the Liaoning Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology [2] - Artifacts from Liaoning account for half of the exhibited items, showcasing items such as clay sculptures, wall components, and exquisite jade artifacts [3] - A dedicated display features artifacts from the Ma'anshan Qiaoshan site, highlighting the lifestyle and spiritual aspects of the Hongshan people over 6,000 years ago [3] Group 3: Cultural Impact - The exhibition serves as a platform for promoting Hongshan culture and expanding its influence, with artifacts from Liaoning increasingly appearing in major national museums [3] - The displayed artifacts reflect the rich historical and cultural heritage of Liaoning, showcasing the mysterious prehistoric civilization of the Xiliao River basin over 5,000 years ago [3]

Core Viewpoint - The exhibition "Dragon Rising China: Archaeological Special Exhibition of Hongshan Culture" showcases over 300 artifacts from the Hongshan culture, highlighting its significance in the development of early Chinese civilization and its cultural heritage [1][10]. Group 1: Exhibition Details - The exhibition runs from June 26 to October 8 at the Shanghai Museum East Hall, featuring artifacts from 20 museums and archaeological institutions [1]. - Key artifacts include the "C" shaped jade dragon from the Palace Museum and the ring-shaped jade dragon from the Liaoning Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology [10]. Group 2: Hongshan Culture Overview - Hongshan culture, dating back approximately 6500 to 5000 years, is a significant Neolithic archaeological culture in northern China, corresponding to the era of the Yan Emperor and Yellow Emperor in traditional historical narratives [3]. - The culture spans an area of about 200,000 square kilometers, covering regions in Liaoning, Inner Mongolia, and northern Hebei [3]. Group 3: Cultural Significance - The Hongshan culture is recognized for its early development of ritual architecture, including altars and tombs, and the establishment of a jade ritual system, marking its transition into a complex social structure [3][6]. - The late stage of Hongshan culture saw the emergence of differentiated social hierarchies and complex ritual practices, indicating a move towards civilization [6][7]. Group 4: Artifacts and Cultural Impact - The jade artifacts, particularly the jade dragon, represent significant achievements in the Hongshan culture, influencing later cultures along the Yellow and Yangtze Rivers [7]. - The exhibition includes three thematic sections: "Dragon from the Liao River," "Dragon in Hongshan," and "Dragon across the Nine Provinces," which illustrate the cultural unity and early ritual systems of the Hongshan civilization [10].

Core Viewpoint - The exhibition "Dragon Soars China: Special Exhibition of Hongshan Culture Ancient Civilization" showcases the development of dragon-shaped artifacts over 5,000 years, emphasizing the significance of Hongshan culture in understanding the origins of Chinese civilization [1][29]. Exhibition Overview - The exhibition is structured around the theme of "dragon," with three main sections: "Dragon Emerges from Liao River," "Dragon Travels Hongshan," and "Dragon Spreads Across the Nine Provinces," highlighting the connection between prehistoric dragon culture in the Liao River basin and Hongshan culture [3][15]. - A central "Axis of Civilization" in the exhibition links various dragon-shaped artifacts, illustrating their emergence, development, and influence within the context of Hongshan culture [5][15]. Key Artifacts - The exhibition features significant dragon-shaped artifacts, including a stone dragon from the Zuojiashan site, dated to approximately 6,000 years ago, which may represent the earliest known stone-carved dragon in China [6][8]. - A newly discovered shell dragon artifact from the 2023 excavation at the Caitaopo site in Inner Mongolia provides important insights into the evolution of dragon imagery and beliefs in Hongshan culture [8][10]. - The exhibition includes 16 jade dragons, comprising one C-shaped dragon and 15 pig-shaped jade dragons, showcasing the diversity and significance of these artifacts in Hongshan culture [10][12]. Cultural Significance - The jade dragon is considered a vital ceremonial object in Hongshan culture, with various interpretations regarding its symbolism, including connections to agriculture and celestial beliefs [15][17]. - The exhibition also highlights 38 human-shaped artifacts, reflecting ancestor worship traditions in the Liao River basin, spanning from 8,000 to 4,000 years ago [19][23]. Archaeological Discoveries - Recent archaeological findings, including large settlement sites and burial mounds, have enriched the understanding of Hongshan culture's social structure and burial practices [25][27]. - The Hongshan culture is recognized as a representative archaeological culture of the "ancient state era," significantly contributing to the understanding of the origins of Chinese civilization [27][29].

Core Viewpoint - The exhibition "Dragon Soars China: Special Exhibition of Hongshan Culture Ancient State Civilization" at the Shanghai Museum showcases the significance of Hongshan culture, which dates back approximately 5,000 to 6,500 years, highlighting its contributions to the continuity and innovation of Chinese civilization [1][3]. Group 1: Exhibition Overview - The exhibition features a total of 310 artifacts, including jade dragons, colored pottery, and stone sculptures, with over a quarter of the items being publicly displayed for the first time [1][3]. - It is the largest and most comprehensive exhibition on Hongshan culture to date, organized in collaboration with 20 museums and archaeological institutions [3]. - The exhibition aims to support the application for World Cultural Heritage status for Hongshan culture [3]. Group 2: Cultural Significance - Hongshan culture is recognized as one of the earliest forms of civilization in China, with significant archaeological findings at sites like the Niuhua Liang site, which includes ritual buildings and burial mounds [1][20]. - The jade dragon artifacts are central to the exhibition, representing the cultural and spiritual beliefs of the Hongshan people, and are seen as a precursor to later Chinese dragon symbolism [12][14]. - The exhibition explores the unique path of civilization development in Hongshan culture, emphasizing its unified belief system and emerging ritual practices [3][14]. Group 3: Key Artifacts - Notable artifacts include the earliest known stone dragon sculpture and the largest jade dragon discovered to date, showcasing the artistic achievements of the Hongshan culture [10][12]. - The exhibition features a variety of jade artifacts, including C-shaped and ring-shaped dragons, which are significant in understanding the evolution of dragon imagery in Chinese culture [6][9]. - The Hongshan goddess statue, a key piece in the exhibition, symbolizes the spiritual beliefs of the Hongshan people and has been preserved with great care due to its fragile condition [24][25]. Group 4: Archaeological Insights - Recent archaeological discoveries have pushed back the timeline of Chinese civilization, with Hongshan culture being identified as a representative of the early state era [27][29]. - The findings at the Niuhua Liang site have sparked discussions about the origins of Chinese civilization, linking Hongshan culture to the broader narrative of cultural development in ancient China [18][29]. - The exhibition aims to provide a new perspective on the understanding of early state civilizations in China through the lens of Hongshan culture [29].

Core Insights - The first Red Mountain Culture International Communication Conference was held in Chaoyang, focusing on the theme "Focusing on Red Mountain Culture and Exploring Chinese Civilization" [2] - The event aims to promote the integration of culture, sports, and tourism in Liaoning Province, aligning with Xi Jinping's cultural thoughts and directives [2][3] - Key figures emphasized the importance of Red Mountain Culture in the context of Chinese civilization and its potential for international communication and cultural exchange [3][4] Group 1: Event Overview - The conference featured speeches from prominent officials, including Wang Xinwei, the Deputy Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee and Governor, who highlighted the significance of the Niuhouliang site as a representative of early Chinese civilization [2] - The event was co-hosted by multiple organizations, including the National Cultural Heritage Administration and China Daily, indicating a collaborative effort in promoting cultural heritage [4] Group 2: Cultural Significance - The Red Mountain Culture is recognized as a vital part of Chinese civilization, with its historical roots dating back 6,000 years, making it a key area for cultural research and preservation [3] - Suggestions were made for enhancing the understanding and protection of Red Mountain Culture, including theoretical innovation and systematic protection measures [3] Group 3: Future Directions - There is a commitment to deepen regional collaboration and interdisciplinary research to uncover the multifaceted value of Red Mountain Culture [3] - The conference aims to strengthen cultural exchange and cooperation, exploring the origins of human civilization and promoting shared values inherent in Chinese culture [3]

Core Viewpoint - The establishment of the Liaoning Archaeological Museum aims to showcase archaeological artifacts that were previously stored away, allowing the public to engage with these historical items and learn about the achievements of archaeology in Liaoning [1][6]. Group 1: Museum Overview - The Liaoning Archaeological Museum is the first themed museum in Northeast China focusing on archaeology, transformed from the old office building of the Liaoning Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology [1]. - The museum features the latest findings from the Hongshan culture, an important archaeological culture from the prehistoric period in northern China, dating back five to six thousand years [4]. Group 2: Exhibits and Technology - The museum showcases artifacts from various Hongshan culture sites in Liaoning, including a 3 cm tall "stone sculpture of a seated figure" displayed using holographic technology for a 360-degree view [4]. - The museum has designed interactive exhibits, such as a "health check for Hongshan people," allowing visitors to engage with the content and learn about the physical characteristics and health of the Hongshan people [5]. Group 3: Educational Initiatives - The museum aims to make the Hongshan culture more accessible and engaging through personified storytelling and interactive displays, enhancing public understanding and interest in archaeology [5][6]. - The museum's director emphasizes the goal of bringing the public closer to archaeology and showcasing the achievements of archaeological work in Liaoning [6].

Core Viewpoint - The excavation of the Yuanbaoshan Jishizhong, a significant burial site from the Hongshan culture, reveals important artifacts and insights into the social structure and burial practices of ancient societies in Inner Mongolia [6][21][30]. Group 1: Excavation Details - The Yuanbaoshan Jishizhong is located 1.5 kilometers north of Baji Village in Aohan Banner, Inner Mongolia, and is characterized by stone-built tombs typical of the Hongshan culture, dating back approximately 5,400 to 5,000 years [1][6][21]. - The excavation team, led by Party Yu, faced challenges due to a recent tomb robbery, necessitating urgent rescue excavations [1][6]. - The site has yielded over 100 jade artifacts, with the M15 tomb being the largest and most significant, containing three jade pig dragons, which are emblematic of the Hongshan culture [6][23][30]. Group 2: Cultural Significance - The Yuanbaoshan site is considered one of the most important discoveries in recent years within the Hongshan cultural context, influencing perceptions of social hierarchy and burial customs [6][7][21]. - The discovery of the "tomb-altar integrated" structure at Yuanbaoshan is unprecedented, indicating a dual function of burial and ritual practices [11][13][30]. - The presence of jade artifacts, particularly the jade pig dragons, suggests a complex distribution system of jade within the Hongshan culture, reflecting social stratification and cultural identity [23][31][30]. Group 3: Archaeological Findings - The excavation revealed a total of 21 tombs, including nine from the Hongshan culture, with significant variations in size and structure indicating social hierarchy [15][18][21]. - The M15 tomb, which is the only one with a stepped stone coffin, raises questions about the location of a potential central tomb, as it is positioned towards the southern part of the burial site [17][18][21]. - The "hiding jade in walls" phenomenon, where jade artifacts were found embedded in the walls of the tombs, suggests a ritualistic practice that may have been common in other Hongshan sites [29][30].