Dangyang Museum begins soft opening

By Hu Yikai.

Photos from Dangyang Media and Dangyang Museum.

A view of the Dangyang Museum.

The Dangyang Museum began its soft opening on November 1. Constructed to meet national second-class museum standards and positioned as a major tourist attraction, the museum covers nearly 15,000 square meters and houses more than 6,800 cultural relics, the oldest of which date back to the Spring and Autumn Period (770 – 476 BC). Among the 720 items currently on display, three pieces stand out.

Three artifacts from the Spring and Autumn Period and Han Dynasty.

The "Prince Bao Bronze Fu" (王孙雹铜簠) from the Spring and Autumn Period is inscribed with eight characters meaning "Prince Bao made this ritual food vessel for Lady Cai." It reflects the complex political landscape in which marriage alliances persisted between the states of Chu and Cai despite ongoing conflicts. 

The "Bronze Ding with Panhui Pattern" (蟠虺纹铜鼎) is a ritual vessel from the late Spring and Autumn Period. It features a solemn form and exquisite decoration, making it an important artifact for studying the unique ritual practices of the Chu region.

The "Golden Tianlu” (金天禄) from the Eastern Han Dynasty, crafted in the form of a mythical auspicious beast, symbolizes "heaven-bestowed blessings and prosperity." Its sophisticated craftsmanship reflects the high level of gold artistry achieved during the Eastern Han period (25–220 AD).

Visitors viewing exhibits at the museum.

"The museum aims to bring cultural relics to life, serving as a key platform for residents to connect with their local history and strengthen cultural confidence. This also marks a new milestone in Dangyang's efforts to preserve and pass on its cultural heritage," said Wang Mingqiang, Director of the Dangyang Museum.

Zhang Kai, Tan Hao, and Xue Enwei also contributed to this story.