Marking a significant moment in the exploration of China’s rich maritime history, the ‘Nanhai No.1’ exhibition was inaugurated on July 3 at the Nanyue King Museum in Guangzhou, located in the southern Chinese province of Guangdong. The event, which has been meticulously organized over the past year, offers a unique opportunity to delve into the mysteries of the ancient sunken vessel, ‘Nanhai No.1’.
The exhibition boasts an impressive collection of over 400 historic relics, collected from 12 cultural and heritage institutions spread across the country. Interestingly, over two-thirds of these artifacts have never been displayed to the public before, making this event a treasure trove for history enthusiasts and researchers.
The chosen relics, which are a result of the latest archaeological discoveries and academic research, serve to paint a vivid picture of the flourishing maritime economy during the Song Dynasty (960-1279). They provide a valuable glimpse into the trading activities along the ancient Maritime Silk Road.
The ‘Nanhai No.1’ represents a vital part of this history. Discovered in 1987, this vessel was a conduit on the Maritime Silk Road, ferrying Chinese silk, porcelain, and other high-value goods to destinations spanning Southwest Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. The wreck, however, only saw the light of day in December 2007 when it was finally raised from the ocean floor.
Since then, the ‘Nanhai No.1’ has remained the most significant underwater archaeological discovery in China. Over the past few decades, excavations and research have uncovered fascinating details about the ship, although many of its secrets still lie buried beneath the sea.
The vessel, loaded with a plethora of treasures including gold, silver, bronze currency, luxurious golden goods, ceramics, ironware, copperware, and lacquerware, is a testament to the maritime trade’s opulence during that period. With these artifacts, the exhibition endeavors to reconstruct the ‘Nanhai No.1’s maritime route, which commenced from Quanzhou in Fujian Province and tragically ended in the waters off Taishan, Guangdong Province.
Visitors to the ‘Nanhai No.1’ exhibition can immerse themselves in this fascinating maritime journey until October 8, 2023, soaking up the vibrant echoes of a bygone era and unraveling the intricate tales woven by China’s maritime past.
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