Step into the past and get ready for a splash of history! The Haixi Prefecture Ethnic Museum has just unveiled an 8th-century Tibetan crown that’s not just a royal accessory but a stunning piece of art. With intricate dragon, phoenix, and lion motifs, over 2,400 gemstones, and elegant dangling pearl plumes, this crown is truly a gem from the past! ✨
Unearthed in 2019 from the secret chamber of the Quangou No. 1 tomb, this fragile treasure was originally so delicate that even a light touch could have caused damage. Measuring less than 200 microns thick—about the combined thickness of three A4 sheets—its metal had weathered high‑altitude salt‑alkaline erosion. Experts like Huang Xi and Wang Dan tackled these challenges with pioneering laser‑welding techniques and ultra-fine one‑millimeter stitches, painstakingly reassembling every fragment and gemstone.
Now housed in a temperature‑controlled case with an interactive 3D display, visitors can marvel at every detail as the crown slowly rotates. This modern twist not only makes history accessible but also highlights the fascinating blend of ancient artistry and contemporary technology.
The crown’s design, alongside its matching turquoise‑inlaid gold cup, hints at cultural influences from the Central Chinese plains and Central Asia. A tangible reminder of Silk Road exchanges along the Qinghai corridor, this exhibit connects us to a rich past and inspires a new generation of history buffs and tech enthusiasts alike.
Reference(s):
Restored 8th-Century Tibetan Crown from Qinghai Tomb Dazzles at Museum
cctv.com
