As the Tianjin Museum reaches the grand milestone of its 105th anniversary, this esteemed institution, recognized nationally for its dedication to the preservation of ancient books, has chosen to mark the occasion in a manner befitting its reputation. The museum has curated an exclusive exhibition of ancient texts, providing a window into China’s storied past and offering a unique journey through its vast intellectual landscape.
Titled “Misty Radiance: A Collection of Ancient Texts at the Tianjin Museum”, this exhibition, which runs until November 30th, is truly a trove of wonders. With a curated selection of more than 100 ancient rare texts from the museum’s impressive collection of 53,000 copies, attendees will have the privilege of laying eyes on 78 texts that have never before been exhibited.
Spanning several dynasties, from the evocative era of the Tang Dynasty (618-907) right up to the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), the range of texts on display is astounding. Among them is ‘The Lotus Sutra’, a seminal work that plays a pivotal role in Mahayana Buddhism. Equally captivating is the ‘Ben Cao Gang Mu’, more widely recognized as the Compendium of Materia Medica. This text stands as an authoritative reference on ancient Chinese medicine.
Beyond religion and medicine, the exhibition provides glimpses into various facets of life and thought in ancient China. The texts cover an expansive range of subjects from philosophy, literature, and history, to more specific areas such as geography, politics, economics, military strategy, science, and medicine. Each book, each page, and each word serves as a testament to the evolution and development of ancient Chinese civilization, offering insights into the intellectual pursuits of its people through the ages.
An interesting narrative woven through this exhibition is the tale of the book-making itself. The displayed texts reflect the technological innovations and shifts that have shaped the world of Chinese literature. From the intricate details of woodblock printing to the revolutionary approach of movable type printing and the artistry of lithography, visitors can trace the technological progression that mirrored societal and intellectual growth.
Historically, Chinese society has always placed immense value on education and culture. This respect for knowledge and the written word saw generations of scholars and everyday citizens dedicating themselves to the collection and preservation of books. The Tianjin Museum, with this exhibition, seeks not only to showcase these texts but to also spotlight the arduous journey of preservation. On display are not just the books but also a range of physical objects, photographs, and videos detailing the tools and methods employed in the restoration process. These elements serve to underline the commitment and effort that have gone into ensuring this rich cultural heritage continues to inspire and educate for generations to come.
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