An extraordinary exhibition showcasing the riches of the Inca civilization was held from January to April at the Jinsha Site Museum in Chengdu, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. The exhibition featured 168 pieces or sets of artifacts from 14 museums across Peru, including boneware, ceramics, metals, stoneware, woodware, textiles, paintings, and even mummies.
Originating in the Peruvian Andes, the Inca civilization is one of the three major civilizations of the Americas. Flourishing between the 15th and 16th centuries AD, the Incas left behind a wealth of historical and cultural relics that continue to captivate the world. Known as the “Golden Empire” due to their reverence and extensive use of gold, the Inca civilization finds a fascinating parallel with China’s ancient Sanxingdui civilization.
The Sanxingdui Ruins, located in Guanghan, Sichuan Province, are considered one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. Believed to be the remnants of the ancient Shu Kingdom dating back over four thousand years, a vast array of metal artifacts, particularly bronze, have been unearthed at the site.
Both the Inca and Sanxingdui civilizations demonstrated advanced metallurgical skills. While the Incas are renowned for their abundant use of gold, the Sanxingdui culture is celebrated for its impressive bronze artifacts. These similarities highlight a remarkable convergence in technological achievements and spiritual beliefs despite the vast distances separating the two cultures.
“Although China and Peru are thousands of miles apart, their respective cultural heritages share the common spiritual belief of sun worship,” said Zhu Zhangyi, director of the Jinsha Site Museum. “This exhibition offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the profound connections between these two ancient civilizations.”
Reference(s):
Inca civilization exhibition reveals ancient Peru's riches in China
cgtn.com
