Shaanxi History Museum

Shaanxi History Museum
Name	Shaanxi History Museum
Established	1991
Location	Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
Type	History museum
Collection size	Over 1.7 million objects
Visitors	Approximately 2.7 million (2019)
Director	Hou Ningbin
Architect	Zhang Jinqiu
Website	http://www.sxhm.com/

Shaanxi History Museum. It is a premier national museum located in Xi'an, the capital of Shaanxi Province. The museum was inaugurated in 1991 to house the immense cultural relics unearthed from the region, often called the cradle of Chinese civilization. Its design and collections reflect the profound historical significance of the area, which served as the capital for numerous dynasties including the Zhou, Qin, Han, and Tang dynasty.

History

The museum's establishment was a direct result of a proposal by the former Premier Zhou Enlai during his visit to Xi'an in the 1970s, recognizing the need for a modern facility to protect the region's treasures. Construction began in 1983 based on a design by renowned architect Zhang Jinqiu, with the museum officially opening to the public on June 20, 1991. Its creation consolidated artifacts from several older institutions, including the former Shaanxi Provincial Museum located at the Forest of Stone Steles Museum. The museum has since played a central role in major archaeological projects linked to sites like the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor and the Han Yangling Mausoleum.

Architecture and layout

The architectural concept, "Hall in the center, storied buildings in corners," draws inspiration from the palaces of the Tang dynasty, particularly the Daming Palace. Designed by Zhang Jinqiu, the complex features a central atrium flanked by symmetric exhibition halls, creating a grand, axial layout reminiscent of traditional Chinese courtyard architecture. The exterior utilizes modern interpretations of Tang elements, with grey, white, and earth-tone colors and a massive, sloping roof. The main exhibition area is divided into three permanent galleries: the Basic Exhibition Hall, the Theme Exhibition Hall, and the Temporary Exhibition Hall, organized around a central courtyard with a replica of a Tang dynasty fountain.

Collections and exhibits

The museum's vast holdings, exceeding 1.7 million items, chronicle over one million years of history from the Lantian Man period through the late Qing dynasty. The Basic Exhibition Hall presents a chronological journey through Ancient China, featuring relics from the prehistoric Yangshao culture, the bronze ritual vessels of the Western Zhou, the terracotta and weaponry of the Qin dynasty, and the gold, silver, and pottery of the Han and Tang periods. The Theme Exhibition Hall focuses on specific topics such as Shaanxi bronze ware, Tang dynasty pottery figurines, and murals from Tang tombs, while the Temporary Exhibition Hall hosts national and international shows.

Significant artifacts

Among its many national treasures, the museum houses a celebrated collection of Tang dynasty tomb murals, originally from sites like the Tomb of Princess Yongtai and the Tomb of Prince Zhanghuai. Other iconic pieces include a Western Zhou bronze ritual vessel known as the "You with Multi-dragon Decoration," a massive Western Han bell from the Wei River, and a sublime Tang dynasty gilded silver jar with a design of dancing horses. The collection also features a rare set of tiger-shaped tallies from the Qin dynasty, exquisite Tang tri-colored glazed pottery, and unique gold and silverware from the Hejiacun Hoard.

Research and education

The institution maintains a robust research division focused on archaeology, conservation science, and Chinese historiography. It collaborates extensively with organizations like the National Cultural Heritage Administration and academic bodies such as Northwest University and Shaanxi Normal University. The museum's conservation center works on advanced restoration projects for fragile materials like silk, murals, and metals. Educational outreach includes scholarly publications, international academic symposia, public lectures, and interactive programs for students, often leveraging its partnership with the Shaanxi Archaeological Institute.

Visitor information

The museum is situated at 91 Xiaozhai East Road in the Yanta District of Xi'an, easily accessible via the Xi'an Metro Line 2 and Line 3. It is open to the public throughout the year, with free admission to the basic exhibitions, though a reservation is required. Special exhibitions, such as the Tang mural gallery, require a separate ticket. Visitor services include guided tours in multiple languages, audio guides, a museum shop, and cafes. Its proximity to other major sites like the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Shaanxi Provincial Institute of Archaeology makes it a central part of the city's cultural landscape.

Category:Museums in Shaanxi Category:History museums in China Category:Tourist attractions in Xi'an