AN exhibition of cultural relics on loan from six museums in Sichuan Province is being held at the Shenzhen Museum’s Civic Center outlet.

    Featuring a spectacular selection of tomb tiles, bronzeware and pottery figurines, the 168 exhibits showcase the fascinating culture of China during the Han Dynasty (206 B.C.-A.D. 220).

    Among the highlights of the exhibition are tomb tiles featuring vivid, engraved patterns that represent the ways people used to live. Motifs include figures and animals, as well as production and activities such as plowing, sowing, harvesting, herding, banquets and entertainment. There are also depictions of mythological scenes and legendary figures. Families throughout Han China made ritual sacrifices of animals and food to deities, spirits and ancestors at temples and shrines, in the belief that these items could be utilized by those in the spiritual realm. Tombs were commonly adorned with uniquely decorated hollow clay tiles that functioned also as a doorjamb to the tomb.

    The practice of engraving patterns on bricks used for tomb construction originated in the late Warring States Period (475-221 B.C.). It reached its zenith in the Han Dynasty and remained popular as late as the Northern and Southern Dynasties period. The patterns are either shallow reliefs created using wooden molds or incised or raised outlines carved on bricks before they were fired in a kiln.

    A 1.5-meter-tall money tree is a must-see object at the exhibition. The tree is named for the abundance of round bronze coins with square holes that hang from the branches. Thought to emit light, coins guided the deceased, who would ride on a winged ram up the ceramic mountain to the bronze tree of paradise. These coins could also be plucked for needs on the journey from earth to the realm of immortals.

    Money trees are associated with Taoism, a philosophy originating in China that offers ideas about harmony and balance, nature and change. The Western Paradise of Taoist immortals is ruled by the Queen Mother of the West, who sits atop this tree on her tiger of the west and dragon of the east throne, representing yin (dark) and yang (bright).

    Queen Mother of the West is the most famous Taoist immortal because she holds the secret of immortality. Similar trees have been found in the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220) tombs in Sichuan Province.

    At the exhibition, visitors can also admire pottery figures with poses of dancing and playing instruments or leisure. During the exhibition period, visitors can also try on Han-style clothes and pose for pictures in a traditional setting.

    Dates: Until July 24

    Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Closed Mondays

    Venue: Shenzhen Museum, Block A, Civic Center, Futian District (福田区市民中心A区深圳博物馆新馆)

    Metro: Shekou or Longhua Line, Civic Center Station (市民中心站), Exit B(Cao Zhen)