The enigmatic bronze masks and relics of Sanxingdui, unearthed in China's Sichuan province, have long captivated archaeologists. Yet former Sanxingdui Museum Director Xiao Xianjin argues that scholarly analysis alone cannot fully connect these 3,000-year-old artifacts to contemporary society. "Literature breathes life into history," he stated during a recent discussion on cultural preservation.
Xiao emphasized that while archaeological research deciphers the technical aspects of the Ancient Shu civilization, literary narratives transform fragmented relics into relatable human experiences. By reimagining rituals through poetry or crafting stories around ceremonial jade tablets, writers help modern audiences emotionally engage with Sanxingdui's legacy.
This approach aligns with China's intensified efforts to revitalize traditional culture through creative industries. Museums across the Chinese mainland are increasingly collaborating with authors and filmmakers to develop multimedia exhibits that contextualize artifacts within broader historical tapestries.
For global audiences and diaspora communities, Xiao's perspective offers new ways to appreciate Asian heritage beyond academic texts. As Sanxingdui gains international recognition through touring exhibitions, storytelling bridges temporal and cultural divides – turning museum visits into journeys through living history.
