Published by the HKPM in both Traditional Chinese and English versions, this catalogue delves into significant archaeological discoveries in China over the past two decades, mapping the extensive and profound history of Chinese civilisation. The catalogue features a scholarly essay written by a scholar from the Mainland, accompanied by object entries contributed by the HKPM’s curatorial team, highlighting 40 selected objects among the nearly 110 exhibits from 14 major cultural institutions in the Mainland and Hong Kong. The exhibits, representing nine major archaeological sites, illustrate the historical trajectory of the origins, formation, and development of Chinese civilisation. The collection and archaeological discoveries showcase remarkable continuity, creativity, unity, inclusiveness and peacefulness, while evincing the “diversity in unity” pattern of Chinese civilisation.

Jointly organised by the Hong Kong Palace Museum and Art Exhibitions China, the special exhibition of the same title runs at the Hong Kong Palace Museum from 25 September 2024 to 7 February 2025.

With contributions from Wang Wei, Shengyu Wang, Raphael Wong, and Meng Qiao