Silver Jewelries of Miao Ethnic Group from Hunan Museum Exhibited in Hangzhou

On December 30, 2012, the exhibition of Silver Jewelries of Miao Ethnic Group from the collection of Hunan Provincial Museum kicked off at Hangzhou Arts & Crafts Museum.

77 pieces of silver jewelries meticulously selected from Hunan Provincial Museum, including headwear, neckwear, handwear, baldric and clothes ornaments are showcased in this exhibition, some of which even enjoy the reputation of “the most beautiful silver jewelries in the whole world”. Visitors will experience a journey into the history of Miao people through this exhibition.

The Miao ethnic group has a population of more than 7.39 million (by 1990), mainly scattered in Guizhou, Hunan, Yunnan, Sichuan, Guangxi, Hubei and Guangdong provinces, forming one of the largest ethnic minorities in southwest China. They have created a variety of colorful arts and crafts, including cross-stitch work, embroidery, weaving, batik, and paper-cut.

Among the colorful and diverse Miao cultures, the silver jewelries, with its enormous quantity, numerous varieties, unique designs and delicate styles, have been regarded as one of the most important symbols. As an old saying goes, “What the feather to birds is silver jewelries to Miao girls.” The silver jewelries are the pride and glory of Miao people, demonstrating the wisdom, history, civilization and esthetic sentiment of the Ethnic Group of Miao. 

Through this exhibition and some themed interactive activities, visitors can not only learn about the various types of Miao silver jewelries, but also can obtain the knowledge about the silver jewelries which also indicate the passion and hope held by Miao people towards the future as well as the such characteristics of Miao ethnical minority as totemism, migrating culture, etc.

The exhibition will run until March 31, 2013.