-Encountering Sanxingdui Exhibition- Represents Ancient Shu Civilization

The immersive digital exhibition “Encountering Sanxingdui” recently made its debut at the MEMOR Museum in Manhattan’s Upper East Side. This exhibition harnesses digital technology and modern techniques to provide visitors with an intimate look at the artistic achievements of the ancient Shu civilization while delving into the historical background of this enigmatic site.

Curated by Chinese cultural heritage organizations and experts, the exhibition took three years of preparation and two years of filming. It features 1:1 replicas of artifacts, ultra-high-definition 12K imagery, AI interactive technology, and VR immersive experiences. Together, these elements depict the archaeological discoveries at Sanxingdui and showcase the works of contemporary artists, highlighting the rich cultural significance of ancient Shu civilization.

Thanks to VR technology, some large artifacts can now “travel across the ocean,” making their way into the limited space of the museum. Noteworthy pieces on display include the “Bronze Giant Standing Figure” and the “Bronze Sacred Tree,” both of which embody the artistic accomplishments and spiritual symbols of the ancient Shu people. Replicas include bronze masks, altars, and gold masks that represent Shu civilization.

Among the most iconic artifacts is the “Bronze Crowned Mask,” which reveals the religious beliefs and ritual activities of the ancient Shu people. Unearthed from the Sacrificial Pit No. 2 at Sanxingdui in 1986, this mask provides crucial insights into Shu civilization, with the gold-masked bronze human figure remaining one of the hallmark images of Sanxingdui culture. The exhibition features ultra-HD displays showcasing the details of the artifacts alongside a VR archaeology experience.

The Sanxingdui site, approximately 3,600 years old, is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. It was first stumbled upon by a farmer in Guanghan, Sichuan, in 1927, with large-scale excavations occurring in 1986 and 2021. To date, more than 30,000 precious items, including gold artifacts, jade, and ivory, have been uncovered, with the massive bronze pieces particularly renowned. In 2002, the Metropolitan Museum of Art hosted an exhibition on ancient Shu culture, showcasing Sanxingdui’s rare bronze artifacts.

This exhibition has previously toured cities like Beijing, Paris, and Doha. The New York exhibition will run until February 7, 2024, and visitors can find more details on the museum’s official website: memormuseum.com/exhibition/sanxingdui-encounter.