The ERA OF THE TANG, a true jewel of Chinese history, blossoms within an unprecedented artistic and cultural prosperity. The Guimet Museum, by opening the doors to a fascinating exhibition, immerses us in the refined and cosmopolitan universe of this emblematic dynasty. Through more than 200 works of extraordinary richness, we are invited to rediscover the capital Chang’an, crossroads of civilizations and a hub of creativity, where merchants, artists, and intellectuals mingled. This journey into the heart of the Era of the Tang is a unique opportunity to grasp the cultural legacy that continues to influence China today.
In the heart of Paris, the National Museum of Asian Arts – Guimet stands out by presenting a remarkable exhibition dedicated to the fascinating Tang dynasty. This period, marked by an extraordinary cultural richness, extends from 618 to 907 and reflects an era of unparalleled prosperity, exchanges, and creativity. Thanks to an impressive collection of more than 200 artworks from over thirty institutions, this exhibition allows us to explore the almost forgotten treasures of this vibrant period, transforming the museum into a gateway to a glorious past.
An emblematic dynasty #
The Tang dynasty, founded in 618, is often regarded as the golden age of Chinese culture. After centuries of division, it succeeded in restoring peace and unity, initiating an era of unprecedented economic prosperity. The reorganization of the state and the expansion of its territory into Central Asia provided the dynasty with a vast framework for enriching exchanges, both material and intellectual.
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This artistic showcase includes fields such as painting, the arts of soup, music, and poetry, all experiencing exceptional growth. The Tang thus laid the foundations of a culture that would influence China for centuries to come, even after their fall. This exhibition allows for a rediscovery of these foundations through moving and significant works.
The richness of the exhibition #
Organized in collaboration with Art Exhibitions China, the exhibition at the Guimet Museum gathers 207 sets of works, testifying to the multiculturalism and refinement of Tang society. Visitors are invited to traverse an immersive path through Chang’an, the vibrant capital of the time, recognized as one of the greatest metropolises in the world. At the heart of this bustling city stood an imperial palace three times larger than the Ming Forbidden City, providing a majestic backdrop for cultural exchanges.
A sensory journey through art #
Each displayed piece dances before the eyes of those who take the time to admire it. The treasures of goldsmithing, fascinating mural paintings, as well as scrolls of calligraphy evoke a rich heritage that reflects the experiences lived with other civilizations through exchanges and migrations. The works testify to the interactions between China, the Orient, Central Asia, and even the distant African coasts, thereby revealing the global reach of this dynasty.
Among the displayed jewels, some pieces, notably the Tang goldsmith treasures never shown to the French public, illuminate the journey with their historical and artistic brilliance. Between poetic narratives and pictorial creations, these works inspire deep meditation on the beauty and legacy of Tang culture.
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An invitation to discovery #
This exhibition constitutes more than just a simple retrospective. It offers a unique immersion into a time when art and culture were at the heart of every social interaction. The Guimet Museum becomes a true crossroads where past stories and contemporary inspirations converge, creating a space that resonates with the souls of the visitors.
With this exhibition, visitors are invited not only to observe but to feel the unleashed creativity of the Tang dynasty, to resonate with the emotions that each artistic interaction evokes. The journey through time promises to be both enriching and enchanting, a place where history comes alive and where the past continues to inspire current creation.
