A society that fostered symbolism and wealth

From the late Warring States Period (475-221 BC) to the Western Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 24), along the shores of Dianchi Lake in Kunming of Yunnan province, there existed an ancient civilization known as Dian.

Although archaeologists have yet to uncover any written language from this civilization, a large quantity of uniquely shaped bronze ware unearthed in the last century serves as a vivid historical record of the ancient civilization, bringing to life the story of this regional state that once thrived more than 2,000 years ago on the southwestern frontier of China.

Unearthed in the 1950s from Shizhaishan and Lijiashan sites in Kunming, Yunnan province, a treasure trove of ancient Dian currency (cowrie shells) and over 10,000 bronze ware were discovered. Among them stands out a unique type of bronze artifacts: bronze cowrie containers with decorative covers featuring vivid miniature sculptures.