April Zhang

Opinion | Ancient artefacts can bridge US-China ties, if we tell the right story

While US interest in Chinese work may be limited, more Americans might care if the narrative includes their efforts to return lost relics

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Staff members check the condition of ancient Chinese artefacts at a handover ceremony at the Chinese Consulate General in New York City on April 17. The US has played a useful role in the return of Chinese artefacts to China. Photo: Xinhua

April Zhang

Published: 5:30am, 18 Jun 2024Updated: 6:39am, 18 Jun 2024

Can ancient Chinese artefacts bridge the growing gap in China-US ties? It honestly depends.

If the approach is merely showcasing the finest examples of Chinese culture and art, the effect will be very limited – even if it is the first time to share such heritage with the outside world. Put simply, it is one-sided lecturing.

People involved in the presentation may get very excited, but listeners can grow bored quickly. We have all seen the scenario play out again and again, either as a parent, a teacher or someone just trying to help.

Unfortunately, this is how Chinese cultural artefacts are presented in the United States. For example, an exhibition in San Francisco, “Phoenix Kingdoms: The Last Splendour of China’s Bronze Age”, is displaying more than 150 artefacts from the Zhou dynasty (circa 1046-256 BC).

As expected, the exhibition’s organisers are very excited, stressing that some of the artefacts have never been outside China until now, especially considering it’s a rare chance for American audiences to appreciate the richness of Chinese history and traditions. The organisers say these kinds of exchanges can help build trust, start dialogue and perhaps “heal the gap” between the two nations.

That is wishful thinking, to put it bluntly. Except a small number of people, such as Chinese-Americans who are proud of their heritage, archaeological enthusiasts who are interested in ancient times or professionals in related fields, many Americans will not care. As far as they are concerned, it may as well be an exhibition of ancient Sumerian tablets. It is all really old stuff that has nothing to do with their lives.