Echoes of bronze, whispers of bone: Anyang and Yantai in dialogue

(chinadaily.com.cn)| Updated : 2026-02-09

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An exhibition titled "Echoes of Oracle Bones and Ancient Bronzes — A Civilizational Dialogue Between Anyang and Yantai" opens at the Yantai Museum on Feb 5. [WeChat account: ytmuseum]

A special cultural exhibition titled "Echoes of Oracle Bones and Ancient Bronzes — A Civilizational Dialogue Between Anyang and Yantai" opened at the Yantai Museum on Feb 5. Commemorating Chinese New Year, the exhibition serves as a meaningful cross-regional cultural initiative that bridges two key centers of Chinese archaeological heritage.

It marks a historic reunion after millennia between Anyang — the birthplace of oracle bone script — and Yantai, known as the hometown of its discoverer, Qing Dynasty (1644–1911) scholar Wang Yirong. Moving beyond a simple display of artifacts, the exhibition creates a meaningful dialogue between the Yellow River civilization and the Jiaodong Peninsula civilization linked to these two pivotal sites.

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The exhibition brings together 333 precious cultural artifacts from museums and cultural institutions in both Yantai and Anyang. [WeChat account: ytmuseum]

The exhibition brings together 333 cultural relics from eight institutions across both regions, including 10 first-class artifacts, many displayed in Yantai for the first time. It also makes use of immersive digital technologies such as 3D projections, interactive display cases, and VR experiences, allowing visitors to engage dynamically with history.

During the opening ceremony, attendees enjoyed cultural performances such as poetic recitations and traditional dances that highlighted the distinct heritage of both cities. The event underscores Yantai Museum's commitment to making cultural heritage more accessible and engaging during the festive season.

The exhibition invites visitors to reflect on the continuity and richness of Chinese civilization, experiencing firsthand how ancient histories can resonate in today's cultural landscape.