Four of the twelve legendary bronze animal heads from Beijing’s Old Summer Palace have found a temporary home in Macao. These priceless artifacts—the Tiger, Pig, Ox, and Monkey heads—are being showcased at the Poly MGM Museum as part of a special exhibition.
The bronze heads were once part of a grand water clock fountain in the Yuanmingyuan, also known as the Old Summer Palace, a magnificent imperial garden built during China’s Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). In 1860, during the Second Opium War, the Anglo-French allied forces looted the palace, and the twelve bronze heads were taken from their original home. Over the years, some have been recovered, but others remain missing.
The exhibition, titled “The Maritime Silk Road—Discover the Mystical Seas and Encounter the Treasures of the Ancient Trade Route,” features 184 sets of unearthed relics, textiles, spices, and various treasures. It explores the origins, development, influence, and future prospects of the Maritime Silk Road, highlighting the rich cultural exchange that has shaped regions across the globe.
Visitors to the exhibition have a rare opportunity to witness these significant pieces of history up close. The display not only celebrates China’s cultural heritage but also fosters a deeper understanding of the historical connections between East and West.
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Four bronze heads from Beijing's Old Summer Palace on display in Macao
cgtn.com
