The Ancient Sichuan History Exhibition is a journey through the rich historical legacy of Sichuan Province. Visitors will delve into the depths of ancient civilization, exploring artifacts from the Sanxingdui culture known for its mysterious bronze masks and the Jinsha site, which astounds with its large amount of precious gold, jade, bronze, and stone items. The exhibition showcases the development of local cultures such as the Ba and Shu states, offering spectators a chance to witness the progression of Sichuan's history from the Neolithic Age through to the Han Dynasty. Each artifact in the exhibition tells a story of the people who lived in the region thousands of years ago, their daily lives, religious practices, and artistic accomplishments. The exhibition is an essential experience for anyone interested in the early cultures of China.
The Ethnographic Exhibition of Sichuan's Minority Cultures gives visitors a colorful glimpse into the lifestyles, traditions, and arts of the various ethnic minority groups residing in Sichuan. Through a combination of traditional clothing, tools, musical instruments, and handicrafts, the display highlights the diversity of the province's population and the rich tapestry of cultures contributing to the region's identity. Educational and engaging, the exhibition encourages an appreciation for the unique customs found throughout Sichuan, from the Tibetan and Qiang people to the Yi and Naxi communities. Guests are invited to explore the different environments where these groups live, ranging from high mountain plateaus to lush lowland regions, and understand how each culture has adapted to its surroundings in harmonious and creative ways.
The Sichuan Opera Masks Display is a captivating exhibition dedicated to the traditional art form of the Sichuan Opera. Known for its dramatic masks that rapidly change color and pattern, the display introduces visitors to the craftsmanship and cultural significance behind these iconic stage elements. Patrons can observe a wide variety of masks up close, each reflecting different characters and emotions in the operas, and understand the meaning behind the colors and designs used. The exhibition also offers insight into the skilled techniques mask makers have perfected over centuries, often passed down through generations. Demonstrations and interactive activities may be available for visitors eager to experience the magic of the mask-changing performances, a quintessential aspect of Sichuan culture.
The Sichuan Cuisine Exhibition is an aromatic and visual feast that celebrates the world-renowned culinary art of Sichuan Province. Visitors can learn about the variety of flavors and ingredients that make up the Sichuanese culinary palette, including the famous Sichuan pepper that lends dishes their unique numbing sensation. The exhibition looks at both historical and modern cooking methods and how the region’s geography and history influenced the development of its food culture. Through displays of ancient cooking utensils, historical recipes, and multimedia presentations on current gastronomic trends, the exhibition serves as an educational primer on why Sichuan cuisine has become a darling among food aficionados globally. Although this exhibit doesn't include taste samples, guests will leave eager to explore local restaurants to taste the real thing.
The Sichuan Brocade and Embroid400ry exhibition showcases the exquisite textile arts that have flourished in the region for over two thousand years. Sichuan brocade, known as 'Shu brocade,' is one of the four great brocades of China, and is treasured for its rich patterns, vibrant colors, and fine craftsmanship. Visitors can admire intricate works of art, including robes, tapestries, and modern adaptations that continue to incorporate traditional patterns and techniques. Interactive workshops might be available for those who wish to try their hand at the loom and learn the basics of brocade weaving or embroidery under the guidance of skilled artisans. Exhibits are complemented by multimedia presentations that tell the historical significance of brocade in the Silk Road trade and its influence on cultures both within and beyond China.
The Shadow Puppetry Exhibition at the Sichuan Museum offers a whimsical look into an ancient Chinese art form that has enchanted audiences for centuries. Shadow puppetry in Sichuan, known as Piyingxi, combines storytelling, music, and the delicate manipulation of intricately cut-out puppets to create captivating narratives. Visitors can appreciate the fine detail of the puppets made from leather, which are painted and articulated to perform dramatic tales when cast against an illuminated backdrop. The exhibition educates on the history of shadow puppetry, its cultural relevance, and the techniques used in creating and animating the figures. Additionally, there may be live performances where skilled puppeteers bring myths, legends, and historical stories to life in this unique interactive audiovisual experience.