Representing 5000 years of history of billions of people belonging to more than 50 ethnic groups spread over 9.7 million square kilometres of land is a near impossible feat, but that is the job given to the curators of the Shanghai Museum. Over a million artefacts housed within the museum building give a peak into a country that is truly mystifying.

Founded in 1952, the first public collection resided in the Shanghai Club of Nanjing Road. The paintings, ceramics, bronze work and calligraphy acquired soon outgrew every building it was moved to and a dedicated structure was created in 1996. Embracing the Chinese philosophy of earth and sky with a square base under a round top, the new Shanghai Museum uses modern display methods to showcase the rare and priceless objects within. But the compilation shown to the public in seven galleries and three temporary exhibits is only a fraction of the total collection.

It is difficult to describe the amount of history and information that is held within the walls of this large museum. Trying to tour it in one day is not very practical either. Comprehensive details in English give plenty of knowledge about China’s past through delicate pottery, painted fabrics and intricate jade creations. Coins, seals and sculptures are presented in chronological order representing the dynasty they come from. To enhance the experience temporary collections are brought in from all over the world. It gives the locals and visitors to get a glimpse of world history in the light of artefacts from private and museum collections.

Bringing its magnificent compilation of items of historic and artistic significance to a worldwide audience, the ancient ceramics and bronze galleries are displayed in a virtual tour online. The Shanghai Museum is open throughout the year from 9.00 a.m. till 5.00 p.m. except on notified holidays. It tries and succeeds in capturing the essence of the Chinese people who have lived through the ages. For any lover of history, it’s a treat not to be missed while in the city.

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