Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre has opened its doors to a captivating cultural showcase on Tang dynasty. From now until December 31, ‘Tang Vogue Beyond the Horizons: A Golden Era of Multicultural Integration and Openness’ exhibition gives you a rare glimpse of this remarkable historical period. Jointly organised by the Development Bureau and the National Cultural Heritage Administration, the exhibition celebrates the dynasty’s cosmopolitan spirit and highlights Hong Kong’s significance along the Maritime Silk Road.
Tang dynasty, often hailed as China’s golden age, was a period defined by prosperity, openness, and cultural integration. This exhibition captures that vibrancy through eight sections that explore everything from the governance of the dynasty to the flourishing of art and craftsmanship. Visitors can get up close with the planning of Chang’an city, the daily lives of its people and literati, and their religious beliefs. The Silk Road, both overland and maritime, comes alive here, with Hong Kong’s own archaeological finds – ceramic ware, currency, ornaments, and weapons unearthed along the northern coast of Lantau Island – reminding us of the city’s pivotal role in global trade centuries ago.
The artefacts offer a fascinating glimpse into Tang life. A sancai tea ware model set featuring the image of Lu Yu, China’s sage of tea, evokes the elegance of Tang rituals. A delicate gold jie comb carved in openwork glimmers with timeless sophistication. A painted figurine of a dancing black man speaks to the dynasty’s remarkable openness to foreign cultures, while the crimson gold walking dragon, once used in ritual ceremonies, dazzles with its ceremonial grandeur, and Lun Yu Zheng Xuan Zhu (the Analects with annotation by Zheng Xuan) copied by Bu Tianshou, a 12-year-old boy, offers immense philological value. There’s plenty more to discover.
Make the most of the final month to check out this free exhibition. Experience Tang dynasty’s grandeur in person. Learn more about the exhibition here.