The Hidden Artifacts (Chinese Ancient Civilization from an Archaeological Perspective)

Author: Huang Aimei et al
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Features: From the sound of stone tools striking in the vast valleys of ancient times to the exquisite bronze ritual vessels, from the faint flicker of firelight at Zhoukoudian to the magnificent formation of the ritual music civilization, the evolution of ancient Chinese civilization has undergone a long journey from its inception to maturity. Every step in this process embodies the toil and wisdom of our ancient ancestors, as well as the glory and dreams of a great nation. During the long evolution of ancient Chinese civilization, the gradual establishment of the ritual music system of the Three Dynasties was a pivotal period that bridged the past and the future. It not only shaped the fundamental characteristics of ancient Chinese civilization but also provided important institutional and cultural resources for later historical developments. Subsequent civilizations, whether the "division" of the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods or the "unity" of the Qin and Han dynasties, and even the various forms that followed, though constantly incorporating new elements, largely maintained the essence and core of Chinese civilization. This gave rise to a sustained and continuous civilizational trait, profoundly influencing the course of Chinese history. From ancient times to the Xia, Shang, and Zhou dynasties, from rituals and warfare to daily life, we can find evidence of ancient society and institutions in the remnants of civilization, and discover the emotions and thoughts of our ancestors in their artifacts.