Students from Nantong University view the ox head statue at Nantong Art Museum. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

Nearly 40 international students from Nantong University visited the Nantong Art Museum on March 25 to explore a special exhibition featuring bronze zodiac heads from Yuanmingyuan and culturally significant relics repatriated from overseas. The visit gave them first-hand experience of China's rich cultural heritage and artistic treasures.

These bronze zodiac head statues embody a bold fusion of traditional Chinese zodiac culture with Western influences. In this exhibition, original artifacts of the ox, tiger, monkey, and pig heads from the Poly Art Museum were displayed, while replicas of the horse, rabbit, and rat heads were presented to the audience as well.

As they lingered in front of the display cases, admiring the exquisite craftsmanship of the artifacts, the students listened attentively as the teachers narrated the Chinese stories behind them. An Iranian student said, "I really love Chinese culture. These zodiac head statues are so exquisite; they are not only artworks but also bear the history and culture of China, giving me a deeper understanding of ancient Chinese wisdom."

In addition to the remarkable zodiac heads, the exhibition also showcased rare bronze artifacts repatriated from overseas, along with pinnacle works of ancient Chinese stone-carved Buddhist sculptures. Through the creative use of light, shadow, and painting techniques, the exhibition provided a captivating and immersive experience.

Teng Kai, the international student counselor at Nantong University, noted the students' excitement. "Most of them usually learn about Chinese traditional culture in the classroom, but through this activity, they can truly experience the essence of Chinese traditional culture, thereby igniting their love and exploration of Chinese culture."