Exciting news from the heart of Sichuan Province! Archaeologists have uncovered an ancient jade workshop at the legendary Sanxingdui Ruins in Deyang. This remarkable discovery, announced by the Sichuan Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology, sheds new light on the sophisticated craftsmanship of the ancient Shu Kingdom.
Between 2022 and 2024, diligent excavation efforts revealed over 400 significant features, including high-level building foundations, ash pits, ditches, and stone processing sites. The team unearthed more than 4,000 artifacts, such as pottery, jade pieces, and stone tools, all dating back to the middle Shang Dynasty (1600-1046 BC), approximately 3,500 to 3,400 years ago. This predates the famous sacrificial pits of Sanxingdui, offering a deeper understanding of the site's historical timeline.
This marks the first time a craft workshop has been discovered at the Sanxingdui site. The findings provide crucial evidence about the sources of jade and stone used by the Shu people and offer valuable insights into the functional layout of their ancient city. Such revelations are instrumental in piecing together the intricate craft production and daily life of one of China's most enigmatic civilizations.
The discovery not only enhances our knowledge of the Shu Kingdom's technological advancements but also highlights the region's rich cultural heritage. As researchers continue to analyze the artifacts, we can expect even more fascinating insights into the lives of these ancient artisans.
Reference(s):
Ancient jade workshop unearthed at Sanxingdui Ruins for the first time
cgtn.com
