An exhibition of exquisite artifacts unearthed from the tomb of Marquis Haihun Liu He of the Western Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 24) is on display in Shanghai to showcase China's ancient culture.

An entrance to the exhibition at the Minhang Museum in Shanghai. [Photo/WeChat account: shanghaitourism]

The exhibition is organized by the Minhang Museum of Shanghai and the Nanchang Relic Museum for Haihun Principality of Han Dynasty in Nanchang, East China's Jiangxi province, where the tomb is located.

The exhibition, which began on Dec 29, 2023, will run until May 19. It showcases 110 exquisite artifacts unearthed from the tomb of the ancient marquis.

The tomb, excavated in 2011, is the largest and best-preserved of its kind discovered in China. The artifacts from Liu's tomb provide a comprehensive glimpse into the flourishing cultural period of the Han Dynasty.

Han Dynasty artifacts on display in Minhang Museum in Shanghai. [Photo/WeChat account: shanghaitourism]

The exhibition is divided into two parts. The first explains the legendary story of Liu, the first Marquis Haihun, who went from being a king to an emperor, then to an ordinary person, and ultimately to a marquis. The second focuses on the artifacts unearthed from Liu's tomb, showcasing the luxurious lifestyles and refined tastes of Han Dynasty nobles.

One highlight of the exhibition is the display of the vast wealth of Liu, represented by various gold artifacts such as gold bars, belts, and ornaments. These items reflect the grandeur of the prosperous Han Dynasty and the abundant resources of the Haihun Marquisate.

An artifact displayed at the exhibition. [Photo/WeChat account: shanghaitourism]

Artifacts displayed at the exhibition. [Photo/WeChat account: shanghaitourism]

The exhibition showcases the exquisite objects used by Liu during his lifetime, including bronze lamps in the shape of geese and fish and gold-plated bronze statues of mythical creatures, which exemplify the fine craftsmanship of that era.

If you go

Address: No 1538 Xinzhen Road, Minhang district

Open: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm (Last admission at 4:00 pm); Closed on Mondays

Source: "shanghaitourism" WeChat account