PRE-HAN DYNASTY (5000 BCE- 202 BCE)

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.