Rediscover China’s origin from myth

Until the second century BCE, China was far smaller than it is today, mainly comprising the areas in the north of Yellow River. During the Neolithic period and the Shang and Zhou dynasties, various kingdoms were co-existing and competing, having a great impact on each other as they evolved. Material evidence reveals that the style and craftsmanship of ancient earthenware pottery have developed over the centuries. Ancient objects remain the basis of almost all the ceramics invented in the later dynasties until now. They serve their particular functions, provide aesthetic value and demonstrate technical skills, providing a tantalising window through which to imagine the mysterious lives of these ancient and sophisticated civilisations.

Large painted pottery with abstract human figures

馬家窯半山型神人紋彩陶罐

Painted pottery with a white background
仰韶文化後期大河村彩陶罐

Painted pottery with four abstract human figures
馬家窯早期马厂型人紋四大圈彩陶罐