An exhibition celebrating the ancient Shu civilisation has brought the mysteries of Sanxingdui, Sichuan’s Bronze Age culture, to Oxford, England, offering British audiences a rare window into one of China’s most intriguing archaeological worlds. 

“Behind the Masks: Discovering Sanxingdui and Jinsha”, held at St Anne’s College from 8–12 November, showcased new discoveries from the Sanxingdui and Jinsha sites through photographs, multimedia installations and meticulously reconstructed relics.

Seventeen replica artefacts were displayed, complemented by augmented-reality experiences that allowed visitors to virtually step into excavation sites and ancient ritual scenes. Archaeologists have long noted that many masks were deliberately damaged before burial, hinting at their role as offerings.

With only 0.2 percent of Sanxingdui excavated so far, curator Liu Bo says the story is just beginning, with recent findings already revealing deep connections between ancient Chinese cultures and other early civilisations; a prospect that Sinologist James Trapp sees as “particularly exciting at the moment”. 

Source: China Central Television