Potala Palace treasures exhibited at China Grand Canal Museum

Photo: canalmuseum.net

Over 100 treasures from the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, are now being exhibited at the China Grand Canal Museum in Yangzhou, East China's Jiangsu Province.

Nearly one-third of the items are being displayed for the first time, according to Zheng Jing, the museum's curator.

"All exhibited artifacts are sourced from the Potala Palace Administration, with nearly one-third being showcased for the first time," Zheng said.

The exhibition showcases precious artifacts from the Potala Palace, with vibrant Thangkas, exquisite sculptures, solemn ritual implements, gorgeous costumes, and intricate practical utensils, offering visitors a deep insight into the charm of this cultural and artistic treasure trove.

Zheng told the Global Times on Thursday that the exhibition has attracted over 1.6 million visitors.

"Over the past three and a half months, more than 1.6 million visitors have flocked to the Potala Palace exhibition," Zhang said. The exhibition is set to end on May 19.

"Some visitors say the spectacular artifacts displayed in the exhibition hall bore witness to centuries of cultural and artistic exchange between Han and Tibetan cultures in China," Zheng noted.

As the historical religious and political center of Xizang, Potala Palace has witnessed the interaction and exchange between the region and other regions in the country.

Many precious artifacts bestowed by the central government are housed in the Potala Palace, influencing local lifestyle, craftsmanship, and aesthetic tastes.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Potala Palace's successful inscription as a UNESCO World Heritage site as well as the 10th anniversary of the Grand Canal's inscription.

This exhibition not only showcases the splendor of the Potala Palace's cultural heritage but also highlights the enduring influence of Tibetan civilization, fostering greater understanding and appreciation between different ethnic groups and regions, Zheng noted.

"We hope through this experience, visitors can appreciate the profound history and culture of the Chinese nation, strengthen the sense of community among the Chinese people, and ignite a fervent passion for the protection of cultural heritage," Zheng said.