The Minhang Museum is currently hosting an exhibition showcasing the culture of the State of Chu in its later years, open to visitors until Oct 8.

Over 2,200 years ago in ancient China, the State of Chu was a dominant power during the Spring and Autumn (770-476 BC) and Warring States (475-221 BC) periods, leaving behind a rich and enduring cultural legacy.

Featuring 129 artifacts, the exhibition chronicles the history of Shouxian county in Huainan, Anhui province, which was once a major city of the State of Chu and its last capital.

The first exhibit upon entering the hall is a lidded tripod bronze Zun (wine vessel) in the shape of a sheep. This bronze artifact, from the State of Zhoulai during the Spring and Autumn Period, features an aluminum-black patina and consists of a lid and a body.

Xu Di, head of the museum's education department, explained that this bronze vessel, blending aesthetics with functionality, is an important relic that represents Shouxian county and the broader areas influenced by Chu culture.

A highlight of the exhibition is the bronze tax-free tally of Lord Qi of E, China’s oldest known tax exemption pass, detailing quotas, routes, and validity.

Xu noted that the tally is crafted from bronze inlaid with gold and silver. Only five such tax exemption passes have been found nationwide — three for carriages and two for boats.

The one showcased at the exhibition is a carriage pass, symbolizing Chu's economic and trade prosperity. Issued to facilitate commercial exchanges, this rare artifact is a must-see and will be on display for just one week.

If you go

• Venue: Minhang Museum, No 1538 Xinzhen Road
• Dates: Until Oct 8
• Opening hours: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm, Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Mondays; last entry at 4 pm)
• Tickets: Free entry
• Tel: 021-6488-0567

Sources: Minhang Museum, Minhang district government