Feature Exhibition : Compilation of Fukuoka’s Excavation Research #8

-Jomon Earthenware, Bronze wares, Haniwa figurine… you name it, we have it!-

Boasting of 30000 years of history, Fukuoka city envelops more than 1000 archaeological sites. 2500 cases of excavation researches have been conducted until now at the cost of delay in urban development. There were various findings including some history- changing discoveries while the true value of some findings was recognized only as a result of long persistent research work.

In this exhibition entitled Compilation of Fukuoka’s Excavation Research, we will be showing recent research results and some lucky findings from each era.

Most notably, we will be exhibiting Naiko Kamon Kyou, a mirror made from copper with a flower petal design from China - the latter Han Dynasty to be precise.

What makes the mirror special is its flawless condition. Unlike other mirrors from the first half of the second century, this mirror has no cracks or rust. On its surface, the characters 長宜子孫, meaning “The prosperity of descendants”, is clearly readable and its specular surface still provides a faint reflection reminiscent of ancient times. 

A Chinese history book mentions that Japan was engaged in a slave trade with China in 107 AD. This mirror might have some connection to this historical fact considering that it is from the same timeline.

This exhibition is the first showcase of this mirror, the latest big finding! Please don’t miss this opportunity to catch up with Fukuoka’s up to date excavation research result!

Posted by Takamura