Cultural Exchanges in May

The National Museum of China (NMC) in Beijing houses some of the finest artifacts of human civilization, illuminating the rich history and achievements of the Chinese people. More than 100 treasured pieces were selected by the NMC and will be displayed in a major exhibition that will visit only one venue in the world: the Canadian Museum of Civilization.

Treasures from China will offer Canadians a privileged insight into the splendour of Chinese civilization and its lasting history. Visitors will also learn how to better understand, interpret, and appreciate Chinese art and fine crafts.

The exhibition features 120 magnificent artifacts. Due in part to their national and cultural significance, most of the objects have never before been shown outside China. The exhibition showcases a dazzling array of materials and styles, reflecting the depth of the country’s artistic genius and the breadth of its social and cultural history. Included are jade carvings and lacquerware; paintings and calligraphy; silk textiles; and objects created from bronze, gold and silver. Ceramics play a particularly important role in the exhibition, providing a common thread across the millenniums. Among the treasures are a beautiful bronze zun (wine vessel) with dragon and tiger decoration from the Shang Dynasty (1600–1046 B.C.), and a spectacular pottery horse and groom from the Tang Dynasty (618–907).

Sweeping in its scope, the exhibition traces China’s remarkable development through the ancient, dynastic and imperial periods, and places the artifacts in their historical context.

4、China Cultural Festival in Israel

The first China Cultural Festival opened May 25 at the Jerusalem International Convention Center in Israel,

A series of different Chinese cultural events are held throughout Israel, including Chinese folk dance, folk music and songs, arts and crafts, photo exhibitions, plays and movies.

The festival, which is jointly held by Chinese and Israeli governments, is dedicated to mark the 15th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, and lasts for about six months until November 2007.

More than 200 performers from all over China come to the Jewish nation to participate the event, and the festival is the greatest event in the sphere of cultural exchanges between China and Israel.