Terracotta Warriors in UK first ceramics exhibition

Terracotta Warriors in UK first ceramics exhibition

Terracotta Warriors feature in a new exhibition of ancient Chinese ceramics never seen before in UK.

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A collection of more than 300 pieces from the acclaimed Zibo Ceramics Museum in northern China are being displayed at The Lightbox in Woking from 11 October to 11 December.

The show charts the historical development of Chinese ceramics, shedding light on royal dynasties, artistic advances and social history, through accurate replicas of ancient pieces. Modern ceramics, a highly prized art form in China, are also being displayed.

As well as the two 6ft replica Terracotta Warriors, significant pieces on show include the Celadon Lotus Flower Vase from the Southern and Northern Dynasties and Terracotta Warriors from the Qin Dynasty.

Those planning to attend the exhibition include the Duke of Kent and the Government’s Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt.

Coinciding with the start of the exhibition will be a visit from a delegation of Chinese business representatives who will be looking to develop trade opportunities with Britain.

It is also hoped the exhibition will help rejuvenate Surrey’s once thriving ceramics industry. Among the county’s sought after ceramics is Farnham Greenware, which in its heyday included the Queen Mother among its fans.

The exhibition begins in the same week as a BBC Four documentary series that charts the history of British ceramics.

David Hodge, Leader of Surrey County Council, said: “It’s a privilege for Surrey to host an exhibition of artefacts that have never been seen before in the UK. Not only is this a chance to see rare art, it’s also an opportunity to build cultural and trade links with a fascinating and economically booming area of the world for the benefit of Surrey and Zibo residents.”

Marilyn Scott, Director of The Lightbox, said: “The opportunity to partner with a major ceramics museum in China is a wonderful opportunity for a regional gallery such as ourselves and we are so excited to be bringing a wealth of ceramic history to Surrey.”

Ends

The exhibition is titled From the Realm of the Dragon: The Ceramic Heritage of Zibo, China. It will run from 11 October to December 11, 2011.

The region of Zibo, located in the Shangdong Province of China, has played a significant role in the history of ceramic production. Ancient China began producing earthenware in the Neolithic period (approximately 10,000 – 2000 BC) and Zibo, which boasts an 8,000 year-old kiln, was one of the areas at the centre of the development of Chinese ceramics. Today, the name Zibo is synonymous with high-quality ceramics.