Unearthed : Recent Archaeological Discoveries from Northern China

In 1908, the American adventurer Robert Sterling Clark organized a scientific expedition to northern China to create a detailed geographical survey, photograph the region and its peoples, and collect samples of the flora and fauna. Inspired by this important early record of the region, the Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute has organized a major exhibition of Chinese archaeological treasures from the Shanxi, Shaanxi, Ningxia, and Gansu provinces. Ranging from gilt bronze plaques with animal imagery produced by early nomadic cultures, to tomb guardians charged with protecting the deceased, to luxury goods reflecting the lucrative "Silk Road" trade, these artifacts are helping to redefine our understanding of ancient Chinese cultures. Showcasing over 85 recently excavated objects, Unearthedincludes detailed texts that discuss tradition and innovation in Chinese art; China's interactions with the outside world through trade and invasion; artistic techniques and styles; and cultural traditions. The acquisition of the artifacts is contextualized within the major developments in Chinese archaeology over the past hundred years.

Annette Juliano is professor of art history at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark Campus. An Jiayao is research fellow at the Institute of Archaeology, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, Beijing.