"China" has always been something of a simplification. This is because it is an idea that has been used to encapsulate a vast heterogeneous portion of the World's population. With current relations with Japan tense, the idea of China as a monolithic giant with a single purpose, bringing its weight to bear on a tiny territorial dispute, is indeed a frightening one. But, as demonstrated by the recent anti-Japanese riots, which afflicted some areas while bypassing others, China is and always has been a diverse patchwork. This is also the message of the latest exhibition at the Tokyo National Museum.
"China: Grandeur of the Dynasties" is unlucky in its timing. With reports of Chinese mobs vandalizing anything Japanese fresh in the public's mind, there could well be a backlash here. But, given how crowded exhibitions of Chinese historical relics and artifacts normally are, this might turn out to be a blessing for those visitors who choose to visit.
With 168 items, including pottery, sculpture, metalwork, jade and the obligatory member of Emperor Shi Huang's terra cotta army, there is plenty to see. Also, it is never more important to understand our neighbors than when relations are at low ebb.
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