The Great Wall of China
Image: Deuce Design
Source: Deuce Design
Friday March 23 saw the official launch of The Great Wall of China: dynasties, dragons and warriors at Melbourne Museum.
Launched by The Right Hon. the Lord Mayor John So, approximately 400 guests attended the Chinese-themed event, including representatives from the National Museum of China and the Ministry of Culture, as well as representatives of Melbourne’s business, arts, Chinese and diplomatic communities.
Guests were entertained throughout the evening by Chinese dragons and lions, musician Wang Zheng Ting and a dragon puppet from ERTH theatre company.
"The Great Wall of China is a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience one of the great wonders of the world. Visitors to Melbourne will be fascinated and enthralled by this unique insight into China’s history," said Museum Victoria CEO Dr. Patrick Greene.
Featuring treasures dating back to 475 BCE, many never seen before outside China, the exhibition’s objects bring to life fascinating stories associated with the Great Wall over a period spanning 2500 years. These include a Terracotta Warrior; a crossbow, sword and axe from the Qin Dynasty (221 – 206 BCE); a bronze funerary mask from the Liao Dynasty (916 – 1125 AD) and formal court robes which belonged to the Qianlong Emperor (reigned 1736 – 1795).
The Great Wall’s origins, construction and military functions are also explored, along with contemporary topics including recent archaeological excavations, conservation and its significance as a national symbol, cultural heritage object and tourism icon.
Held earlier the same day, the exhibition’s media launch was also a great success, with attendees including The Age, Herald Sun, SBS radio, ABC radio and a variety of Chinese language newspapers.