Hosted by the Guangdong Museum and jointly organized by the Shaanxi Academy of Archaeology, Luoyang Museum, and Xi’an Museum, Dream Back to the Greatest Era: Art and Life in the Tang Dynasty runs from December 13, 2018, to May 19, 2019, in the Painting and Calligraphy Hall on the 3rd floor of Guangdong Museum.

The Tang dynasty represents the golden age of ancient China. During its first century, the reigns of Zhenguan and Kaiyuan ushered in eras of prosperity that made China the world’s most advanced, powerful, and outward-looking nation. Xi’an and Luoyang—the empire’s twin capitals—were major cultural hubs whose material culture, performing arts, cosmopolitan society, and groundbreaking institutions far surpassed those of earlier dynasties.

Grounded in archaeological discoveries, the exhibition features 163 pieces/sets of artifacts associated with prominent Tang figures such as the court lady Shangguan Wan’er, the eunuch Gao Lishi, the “abdicated emperor” Li Xian, daughter of a noble clan Li Chui, prime ministers Han Xiu and Zhang Jiuling. Highlights include a mother-of-pearl inlaid bronze mirror with floral medallions, a sancai “nine stars” plate, a gold-filigree and pearl-inlaid Diexie belt with a jade buckle, and a guqin from the Tang dynasty.

When people of the High Tang evaluated High Tang poetry, they spoke of "spirit, vitality, and emotion," calling it the "High Tang Atmosphere" (Shengtang Qixiang), which was highly recognized by later generations. Tang poetry, as the essence of Tang culture and art, is very representative of this "High Tang Atmosphere." The exhibition, led by "Spirit" (Shen), "Vitality" (Qi), and "Emotion" (Qing), is divided into three chapters: "The Customs" (Feng), "The Elegance" (Ya), and "The Hymns" (Song), showing the customs, elegant affairs, and society of the High Tang. The parts are intertwined yet each has its own focus.

Visitors can listen to ancient music via QR code, view projection videos, browse reading guides and catalogues, or join educational programs held throughout the exhibition period.

This is a ticketed exhibition (regular price: RMB 30/person), with discounted and free admission offered to eligible groups. Tickets are available through Damai.cn and on-site.

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