Core Insights - The article discusses the contributions of Guo Dashun to the understanding of Hongshan culture and its significance in Chinese civilization [1][2][5] - It highlights the recent archaeological discoveries and theories proposed by Guo Dashun regarding the existence of a more significant structure than the "Goddess Temple" in the Hongshan culture [6][10] Group 1: Guo Dashun's Contributions - Guo Dashun is recognized as the foremost expert on Hongshan culture, having led significant archaeological excavations that revealed key artifacts and structures [1][2] - He emphasizes the need for further exploration of the Hongshan culture, particularly the potential existence of a central temple structure referred to as "Shangmiao" [6][10] - Guo Dashun's academic lineage traces back to Su Bingqi, a prominent figure in Chinese archaeology, which influences his interpretations of Hongshan culture [1][2] Group 2: Archaeological Discoveries - Recent findings at the Zhengjiagou site in Hebei indicate a possible migration of Hongshan culture artifacts, suggesting a broader geographical influence [2] - The discovery of large-scale structures and artifacts at the Niuhouliang site supports the idea of a complex societal structure within the Hongshan culture [6][10] - The presence of various types of jade artifacts, including the notable "Jade Pig (Bear) Dragon," indicates a rich cultural and artistic tradition within the Hongshan civilization [36][37] Group 3: Cultural Significance - The article posits that Hongshan culture represents a critical phase in the development of Chinese civilization, characterized by its unique ritualistic practices and social structures [23][24] - Guo Dashun argues that the "altar, temple, and tomb" system of Hongshan culture reflects a sophisticated understanding of cosmology and social hierarchy [23][24] - The integration of jade and pottery in Hongshan culture signifies a fusion of different cultural traditions, contributing to its distinct identity [47][50]

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].