The China Maritime Museum presents an exquisite exhibition on the evolution of ancient Chinese boat civilization, titled “Ancient Chinese Boat Civilization: A Journey Through Time.” This exhibition is meticulously divided into three distinct sections, each offering a unique perspective on the maritime history of China.
1. **How to Sail**: This section delves into the practical aspects of ancient Chinese seafaring, exploring the techniques and knowledge that enabled sailors to navigate the vast rivers and seas.
2. **Boats Traveling Worldwide**: Here, visitors can discover how Chinese boats traversed the globe, establishing trade routes and cultural exchanges with distant lands.
3. **Boats of Culture**: This part celebrates the rich cultural significance of boats in Chinese society, from their role in daily life to their importance in ceremonies and festivals.
The exhibition boasts over 130 exhibits, including bronzes, porcelains, calligraphy, paintings, jades, and ship models. Notable artifacts such as the Han Dynasty bronze drum featuring feathered people rowing boats, the Ming Dynasty painted and gilded wooden seated statue of the renowned navigator Zheng He, and the Qing Dynasty jade-carved dragon boat accessory are all featured, highlighting the splendor of China’s boat culture.
The museum’s collection is used to showcase ship models that were designed for various water environments. Examples include the 23-wheel ship used for military purposes during the Song Dynasty, the Bianhe passenger ship depicted in the famous painting ‘Along the River During the Qingming Festival’, and the wooden sailing ship Keying, which made its historic voyage to London in the Qing Dynasty.
These models illustrate the extensive history of boats and their development over time, from river channels to the open seas. The exhibition runs from May 16 to October 31, with specific business hours subject to the day’s circumstances.
