Page 21 - China, 5000 years : innovation and transformation in the arts

absorptive power of the orthodox culture, which
was primarily that of the majority Han people
(as well as of their predecessors, the Huaxia people).
It reflects the stability of that culture, as well as the
harmonious coexistence of cultural diversity and
uniformity, which is its essential quality. To the

best of my knowledge, this may be a mode of

cultural progression unique to China. It germinated
in prehistoric China, took shape in the pre-Qin
period, and was continually reinforced in dynastic
China. History has already shown that China's vast
and wondrous soil affords a great stage for her

many nationalities to exercise their native bents

and abilities.

A people must have a source of spiritual strength.

The great wellspring of spiritual strength and

survival for the Chinese people over several
millennia has been their sense of dignity, love,
confidence, and respect for themselves; their love of
country and struggle tor unity; their perseverance,
self-renewal, and ability to carry on against all
adversity. It was precisely the tremendous creativity
unleashed by this spirit that has enabled the
Chinese people to flourish at an early period of

human history, to maintain their place, unceasing
and uninterrupted, among the peoples of the
world, and in so doing to make an indelible

Acontribution to human culture. full recognition

of this characteristic of Chinese culture will help
deepen our understanding of its perseverance and
also reinforce our confidence in its future.

The treasures displayed in Cliina: 5,000 Years have

existed for thousands of years and will continue to
exist for uncounted years more, providing strong

evidence of China's enormous Apotential.

dependable foundation for the full realization of
this great potential, 5,000 years of cumulative
cultural achievements augur well for China's swift
ascent in the twenty-first century.

May lggy, Honglou Simian, Beijing

INTRODUCTION 19