Nothing is more exciting in archaeological circles than the discovery of a lost civilization that could possibly rewrite history. Sanxingdui, in Guanghan, 40 km from Chengdu in SW China’s Sichuan Province, is one such discovery. The excavations from Sanxingdui bring us face to face with ancient civilizations in Sichuan, long lost and only scantily recorded in ancient Chinese literature. Though over seventy years has passed since its discovery, much of Sanxingdui is still shrouded in historical mists.

Origin of Sanxingdui

Given the absence of any written records about Sanxingdui, identifying its origin becomes a very challenging job. The novelties and differences Sanxingdui’s objects display as compared to those found in other parts of China have given rise to controversies concerning its origin.

One hypothesis that has gained much appeal holds that Sanxingdui was a transplant of Western civilization. Is this really so? Experts have found more evidence to refute that theory than support it.

Chinese civilization is known for its preference for jade while gold is more representative of the West. Most Sanxingdui relics are made of jade rather than gold. The architecture style and material are also more representative of Chinese tradition. There are bronze and pottery utensils and their decorating patterns, which all have counterparts found in the Shang Dynasty (about 1,600-1,100 BC).

The conclusion that Sanxingdui belonged to Chinese civilization, however, does not exclude possible influences of foreign cultures. Exotic seashells unearthed here provide such an example. But exactly how these shells had found their way to Sanxingdui is still a subject of speculation.

Rate this topic:

(No Ratings Yet)

 Loading ...