Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the significance of the Cidun archaeological site in Changzhou, highlighting its cultural richness and historical importance in the context of the Liangzhu culture and the broader Yangtze River Delta civilization [1][12]. Archaeological History - The Cidun site, an oval-shaped earth mound approximately 20 meters high, was first discovered in 1973 when villagers found jade artifacts from the Liangzhu culture [2]. - From 1978 to 1995, multiple archaeological investigations were conducted, uncovering over 2,200 square meters of the site, primarily focusing on the Liangzhu culture noble burial grounds [2]. Key Findings - The Cidun site has been included in the "Archaeological China - Civilization Patterns in the Lower Yangtze Region" research project since 2016, with significant discoveries made since 2019, including burial sites and architectural remains from the Songze and Liangzhu cultures, dating back approximately 5,500 to 4,500 years [3]. - The site features a range of archaeological remains, including residential areas, burial sites, and ritual zones, covering an area of 100 meters in length and 80 meters in width [4]. Cultural Artifacts - Artifacts from the site include pottery, jade, stone, and bone tools, reflecting the production, lifestyle, and cultural aspects of the local residents around 5,000 years ago [9][10]. - The pottery from the Songze culture is characterized by gray and red clay, while Liangzhu culture pottery includes a variety of forms, such as large ceremonial vessels and intricately decorated jars [9][10]. Social Structure - The burial sites indicate a social stratification during the Songze culture period, with evidence of wealth disparities among the deceased, suggesting a complex social structure [12]. - The discovery of large-scale wooden structures and intricate pottery indicates a high level of craftsmanship and social organization, reflecting the advanced state of the society at that time [12]. Cultural Connections - The presence of artifacts with characteristics of the Dawenkou culture from Shandong suggests cultural exchanges between the lower Yangtze region and the Yellow River basin, indicating a broader interaction among ancient Chinese civilizations [14].

Group 1 - The article explores the historical significance of jade in early Chinese civilization, highlighting its dual role as a symbol of both divine and royal power [2][12][32] - Jade artifacts from different periods reflect the evolution of cultural practices, transitioning from spiritual communication tools to symbols of social hierarchy [12][32] - The craftsmanship of jade artifacts, such as the intricate designs and techniques used in the production of jade items, showcases the advanced skills of ancient artisans [5][18][24] Group 2 - The article discusses the transformation of jade from ritualistic objects in the Xia and Shang dynasties to more secular and decorative items in the Ming dynasty, indicating a shift in societal values [24][28][32] - Specific jade pieces, like the jade crown and belt buckles from royal tombs, illustrate the intertwining of art, power, and social status in ancient China [25][30][32] - The exhibition at Hubei Provincial Museum serves as a comprehensive showcase of jade artifacts across various dynasties, providing insights into the cultural and historical context of jade in Chinese civilization [33]

Core Insights - The discovery of three jade dragons from the Hongshan culture in Inner Mongolia marks the highest annual output in recent years, including the largest jade dragon found to date, which measures 15.8 cm in length, 9.5 cm in width, and 3 cm in thickness [1][2] - The excavation site, Yuanbaoshan, dates back 5,100 to 5,000 years and is significant for understanding the social structure of the late Hongshan culture [2][3] Group 1: Archaeological Findings - The newly discovered jade dragon is part of a larger collection of over a hundred jade artifacts, including jade rings, discs, and other items, indicating a rich cultural heritage [1] - The Yuanbaoshan site is the only known example of a southern round and northern tomb structure from the Hongshan culture in Inner Mongolia [1][2] Group 2: Cultural Significance - The Hongshan culture is a crucial part of the study of the origins of Chinese civilization, having evolved from the late Neolithic period around 6,500 years ago and entering the ancient state civilization phase approximately 5,800 years ago [2] - The Hongshan culture is recognized as one of the three major jade culture centers in prehistoric China, alongside Lingjiatan and Liangzhu, highlighting its importance in the development of early Chinese civilization [2][3] Group 3: Regional Insights - The city of Chifeng, where the Yuanbaoshan site is located, is the birthplace of the Hongshan culture, with over 700 archaeological sites identified in the region [2] - Recent discoveries in Hebei province, particularly in Zhangjiakou, suggest that the late Hongshan culture extended beyond its core area, indicating migration patterns and cultural exchanges that contributed to the formation of a diverse Chinese civilization [3]