Splendor of Yuanmingyuan is reproduced at the exhibition. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

The Nantong Art Museum in Nantong, Jiangsu province, will kick off an exhibition on Feb 22 to showcase seven bronze Chinese zodiac animal heads, originally from the Yuanmingyuan Park in Beijing.

The ox, monkey, tiger, and pig heads are original, national first-class cultural relics, while the horse, rabbit, and rat heads are replicas.

The 12 bronze zodiac animal heads from the Yuanmingyuan were originally components of the hydraulic clock in the Haiyan Hall of the Yuanmingyuan. They represent the integration of Chinese and Western cultures and advanced craftsmanship during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).

Bronze Chinese zodiac animal heads. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

In 1860, the British and French forces invaded Beijing, looting and destroying the Yuanmingyuan, causing the bronze animal heads to be lost overseas. Now, seven of the 12 bronze animal heads have returned to China.

The exhibition uses light and shadow technology to showcase the splendor of the Yuanmingyuan and narrates the turbulent fate of the animal heads and the late Qing Dynasty. Additionally, it displays around 100 precious cultural relics, such as bronzeware, tableware, musical instruments, and Buddhist statues, in chronological order.

During the exhibition, cultural and creative products related to the bronze zodiac animal heads and activities like animal head sculpture making will allow visitors to enjoy the exhibition and immerse themselves in this historical and artistic feast.

Address: No 66 Hudong Road, Chongchuan district, Nantong (南通市崇川区湖东路66号)

Tickets: Required