The special exhibition Potala Palace: World Heritage Site from the Land of Snow was unveiled at the China Grand Canal Museum on February 6, 2024. The exhibition features 101 pieces (sets) of artifacts, and has been jointly organized by the China Grand Canal Museum and the Potala Palace, Xizang Autonomous Region.2024 marks the 30th anniversary of Potala Palace’s inscription onto the UNESCO World Heritage List. This exhibition marks the first concentrated display of Potala Palace artifacts in other provinces of China. All exhibited artifacts come directly from the Potala Palace—a third of which are on display for the first time.
The exhibition is organized into three parts: “A Majestic Millenium”, “Diverse Splendor” and “Divine Craftsmanship”. “A Majestic Millenium” introduces the thousand-year-old history of the Potala Palace’s construction, as well as its architectural features. “Diverse Splendor” showcases representative artworks and everyday items from the Potala Palace, such as thangkas and sculptures. The “Divine Craftsmanship” section is organized chronologically according to its two restoration periods, presenting several sets of precious photographs of the restorations, as well as results of conservation efforts of ancient books and Buddhist scriptures.
The exhibition unveils the mystery of the Potala Palace and highlights its indispensable role in the cultural community of the Chinese nation, and as a treasure trove of world cultural heritage. The exhibits of intricate thangkas, flawless sculptures, enigmatic masks, vibrant costumes, meticulously-crafted everyday items and other artifacts collectively interpret the spirit, character and values represented in traditional Tibetan art and culture. It also reveals to the world the exchanges, mutual learning and integration between Xizang and other parts of China in culture and art over the past few millennia.
The exhibition is open until May 19, 2024.
Source: Xinmin Evening News
Photo Credit: China Grand Canal Museum