• The Neolithic Age
• Shang and Chou Dynasties
• Ch'in and Han Dynasties
• Six Dynasties, Sui and T'ang Dynasties

• Sung Dynasty
• Yüan Dynasty
• Ming Dynasty
• Ch'ing Dynasty

The Treasures of Eight Thousand Years

Ch'in and Han Dynasties　221 B.C.E.－220 C.E.

Timeline of Dynasties:

(1) Ch'in　221－207 B.C.E.

(2) Han

1. Western Han　206 B.C.E.－8 C.E.
2. Hsin (interregnum)　9－24 C.E.
3. Eastern Han　25－220 C.E.

Main selection:

Gilt poshan tsun wine vessel
Han Dynasty (206 B.C.E-220 C.E)　

Introduction:

The first emperor of the Ch'in state replaced the feudal system of the Shang and Chou dynasties with imperial rule in 221 B.C.E. The regal administration was further legitimized when the Han dynasty replaced the Ch'in dynasty to create an empire unified by both politics and culture. During this time, misty mountains, auspicious animals, dragons and phoenixes filled the surfaces of daily utensils. Not only did they reflect the deep spiritual nature of society, but also the importance of and desire for immortality.

Jade pi-hsieh animal to ward off evil Han Dynasty (206 B.C.E-220 C.E)

Bronze chia mirror with TLV pattern Han Dynasty (206 B.C.E-220 C.E)