In the article “Made in China” Simon Worrall discusses one of the most interesting Southeast Asia archeological discoveries. Ceramic ware, gold and silver, which was found by divers in turquoise waters, is suggested to belong to Tang Dynasty of China. A lot of specialists are convinced that this is one of the riches discoveries of our times. Prominent experts in archeology believe that this finding can serve as an unquestionable proof of the fact that Tang China produced goods for international mass market. It is rather interesting that in this aspect Tang China is compared with modern China and its orientation on the foreign market. “Factory-like production” can be proved by the state of founded goods (Worrall). As far as they were well protected from exposure to a variety of factors, the majority of them are perfectly preserved till now and can serve as invaluable museum pieces.
The mentioned above cargo included a variety of items. Thus, among them there were a lot ceramic bowls, spice jars, inkpots and jugs. Archeologists found messages on some of the bowls, which allow them to identify their approximate date of production. Such information is one more proof that the founded items represent culture of one of the most ancient and powerful Chinese dynasties.
The importance of discovery lies in the fact that it can provide us with some additional information about the world and culture of the 9th century. Thus, for instance, gorgeous and diverse decoration of items point on eclectics of the world and international market. Goods produced in Tang China were intended to satisfy tastes of various nationalities. Thus, among founded items it is possible to observe symbols of various cultures, including Asian motifs and Buddhist symbols. It is remarkable that decoration can also serve as a clue to the purpose of the cargo. There are evidences that the majority of goods were send as gifts for a wedding.
I suggest that all of the discovered items are rather valuable, because they give people additional information about the world and its history. In addition, with the help of these findings we have a unique opportunity to learn more about Tang dynasty, which is considered to be a powerful engine of world economy of those times (Worrall). All discoveries shown in the gallery attract my attention, but I like ceramic bowls most of all. The fact that such fragile and ancient things were not damaged by shipwreck and time really amazes me.
Works Cited
Worrall, S. “Made in China.” National Geographic, Jun. 2009. Web. 17 Apr. 2011.
