Two Emperors - China's Ancient Origins

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Introduction

29 March - 20 July, 2003
Australian Museum

Uncovering the tombs of two ancient Emperors, this exhibition is one of the most significant to leave China in over a decade.

Two Emperors highlights the shortest and longest dynasties in China's history: the Qin and the Han. This stunning exhibition includes formidable life-sized terracotta warriors, exquisite gold, jade and bronzes, and captivating farmyard animals, pigsties and granaries. Dating back over 2000 years, the most recently excavated remains have never been seen before in this country.

In 221 BC the First Emperor Qin Shihuang, one of the most forceful figures in history, established the political empire from which the name China derives. His harsh rule lasted only 16 years, yet he left an enduring legacy including the Great Wall of China and his now famous burial site. After the fall of the Qin dynasty came the Han which lasted 400 years. From the burial place of the fourth emperor of the Western Han, Jingdi, visitors will see the abundant remains of everyday life and will sense the changing mood from the dark dominance of Qin military might to the welcome peace, stability and prosperity of Han.

For a rare glimpse at ancient Chinese life, come and see the national treasures from some of the world's most celebrated archaeological discoveries.

The exhibition is organised by Praxis Exhibitions Australia and sponsored nationally by the Shaanxi Provincial Cultural Relics Bureau, PRC; La Trobe University; Network 7; Melbourne Museum, Crowne Plaza Darling Harbour and Crowne Plaza at Coogee Beach.