HEFEI, China – A special exhibition showcasing a series of historically significant bronze Chinese zodiac animal heads opened Tuesday at the Anhui Museum in Hefei, located in east China’s Anhui Province.
The featured relics include the heads of the ox, tiger, horse, monkey, and pig—bronze sculptures originally part of the famed fountain clock at the Old Summer Palace, or Yuanmingyuan Park, in Beijing. These artifacts, once looted during the Second Opium War in the 19th century, have been gradually recovered and repatriated in recent years through international cooperation and private donations.
In addition to the zodiac pieces, the exhibition includes rare bronze relics from the Western Zhou Dynasty (1046–771 B.C.), offering a glimpse into early Chinese metallurgy and cultural craftsmanship.
Visitors were seen gathering at the museum to observe the collection, which underscores ongoing efforts to reclaim and preserve China’s cultural heritage. The exhibition aims to foster public appreciation of historical artifacts and highlight the importance of protecting cultural property.
The display runs as part of a broader initiative to celebrate returned relics and educate the public on the legacy of China’s ancient civilizations.
