The Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art has officially repatriated two rare Warring States period (475-221 BC) silk manuscripts, Zidanku Silk Manuscript volumes II and III: Wuxing Ling and Gongshou Zhan, to the Chinese mainland. The artifacts, handed over to China's National Cultural Heritage Administration on Friday, mark a significant step in global cultural preservation efforts.
Dating back over 2,300 years, the manuscripts offer insights into early Chinese philosophy, astronomy, and divination practices. Their return follows years of collaborative research between U.S. and Chinese institutions, underscoring growing international momentum to protect shared cultural heritage. Experts highlight the manuscripts' potential to deepen understanding of China's intellectual history during a pivotal era of state formation.
This repatriation aligns with China's broader campaign to recover artifacts lost during periods of colonial conflict and illicit trade. Analysts note such efforts resonate strongly with Asian diaspora communities seeking reconnection with their cultural roots. The move also signals opportunities for cross-border academic partnerships, with digital preservation projects expected to make these fragile texts accessible worldwide.
