The National Museum of China (NMC) boasts a large collection of inscriptions on oracle bones and bronzes, which cover history, religion, politics, military affairs, culture and other fields and are of important historical and calligraphic values. Among them, the oracle bone inscriptions are regarded as the earliest systematic characters so far discovered in China. Its structural forms and writing styles have precedent-setting significance in the history of Chinese characters. Carving inscriptions on bronzes started from the Shang Dynasty, prevailed during the Western Zhou and Eastern Zhou dynasties, and began to decline after the Qin and Han dynasties. This kind of inscription mainly displays the emblem of a certain clan, posthumous name, sacrificial rites, war, bestowment, etc. Either magnanimous or elegant, well-structured or freestyle, these characters feature various styles and can be regarded as a typical representative of writing in the Shang and Zhou dynasties.

The exhibition will display nearly 100 pieces of oracle bone inscriptions of the Shang Dynasty and bronze inscriptions of the Zhou, Qin and Han dynasties. Many of them are examples of Fashu highly recommended by numerous calligraphers throughout all ages, and are rare treasures of inscriptions on oracle bones and bronzes. We hope to bring these ancient inscriptions closer to visitors so as to arouse their interests in studying evolution of the writing art and trigger their thoughts on continuation of calligraphy from ancient times to modern days, which will help them to appreciate the charm and significance of the outstanding traditional culture.

Date: July 11 - October 7, 2015

Venue: Gallery S14, National Museum of China

Address: East Side of Tian’anmen Square,16 East Chang'an Avenue, Dongcheng District

Source: National Museum of China