The Shang Dynasty of China has one of the earliest written records dating as far back as the 16th century B.C. Some of these records were preserved in the form of ancient art.
Chinese artifacts have a historical value that also gives your home decor one-of-a-kind elegance.
Read more about these rare pieces and how to use them in your home decor below.
Origins of Chinese Artifacts
The origins of Chinese culture began on the Huang He or the Yellow River during the Bronze Age. It is here where archaeologists discovered artifacts from the Neolithic Period retrieved from ancient burial sites.
It was during this period, between 10,000 to 2,000 B.C., that much of today’s Chinese artifacts came. Progressing craftsmanship coincided with the evolving civilization. This evolution created some of the most historically-significant and visually-decadent artifacts of antiquity.
Types of Chinese Artifacts
Early Chinese artifacts began as practical tools for farming and raising animals, which displayed a more sedentary lifestyle. As life became more stable, more art-inspired pieces began to take their form as porcelain vases, sculptures, and screen paintings. Also, the Chinese created ornaments and vessels for ceremonial and religious purposes.
Artifacts were made of Chinese porcelain, clay, jade, bronze, and terracotta. In addition, calligraphy was used on many of these artifacts as a form of art and poetry.
You will find a wide variety of information on ancient Chinese artifacts based on what period they come from as each piece displays a story locked in time.
Common Motifs
Ancient and modern Chinese culture displays their spirituality through communion with nature. Some of the most common themes are animals, flowers, and landscapes.
Art pieces also displayed the devotion and character of the artist. This may be their devotion to beauty, love, family, the land, the gods, or the craft itself. Either way, this devotion led to exquisite design creativity.
The Chinese represent their culture by using symbology and mysticism in their artifacts. One of the most well-known symbols is the dragon. It represents the masculine or yang aspect of the universe. Dragons also represent strength, wisdom, and powers in Chinese legend.
Chinese Artifacts for Your Home
Using actual Chinese artifacts in your home would be expensive and impractical as most of them belong to museums. Some items may be available at auctions or purchased from art collectors. But, if you don’t want to spend your life savings on a vase then you have other options.
Luckily, modern Chinese furnishings replicate authentic traditional designs. All you need to know is your history to find pieces that give respect to the original. Then, display your finds as if they are one-of-a-kind. Place sculptures and vases in protected cabinets or safely storied on mantels. Drape Chinese screen prints elegantly on your walls and know their meaning to impress guests.
Be sure to check our Travel and Entertainment section for more information about ancient cultures.
