A special exhibition on Zhang Jiuling, a renowned Tang Dynasty poet and statesman, is open free to the public at the Shaoguan Museum from August 7 to December 31. The exhibition features 21 sets of artifacts unearthed from the tomb of Zhang's wife, Dong Shaorong, in Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, making their first public display in China.
Titled "Gathering Between Heaven and Earth—The Poetic Life of Zhang Jiuling," the exhibition explores the life and poetry of Zhang, a native of Shaozhou (present-day Shaoguan). Dong died in Chang'an shortly after Zhang was demoted and sent to Jingzhou in the 25th year of the Kaiyuan era (737 CE). Separated by thousands of kilometers, the couple never reunited in life.
The artifacts from Dong's tomb are displayed alongside relics unearthed from Zhang Jiuling's tomb in Shaoguan. Together, they create a dialogue between the cultures of the Central Plains and Lingnan. Exhibits such as a mirror decorated with gold-and-silver flat inlay, gold-wrapped threads and a silver-covered rouge box offer valuable insights into the daily life and burial practices of the wife of a high-ranking official.
The exhibition also offers a range of activities, including poetry gatherings, evening talks and Tang-style makeup experiences. Visitors can take part in poetry quizzes, challenges inspired by famous works and makeup recreation activities, providing an interactive way to explore Tang Dynasty culture.
Author | Huang Xinying
Photos | Tang Yin, Shaoguan Museum
