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Time Travel Alert: 163 Years Later, Stolen Zodiac Treasures Come Home
Five legendary bronze zodiac statues—ox, tiger, monkey, pig, and horse—have reunited at Beijing’s Yuanmingyuan (Old Summer Palace) for the first time since 1860. The exhibition, open until October 29, marks a dramatic homecoming after over a century of separation.
These masterpieces, once part of a grand fountain blending Chinese zodiac symbolism with European design, were looted during colonial-era conflicts. Four statues were safeguarded by the Poly Art Museum, while the horse head was repatriated in 2020. Their reunion sparks conversations about cultural preservation and global heritage.
Why This Matters
The 12-animal zodiac isn’t just folklore—it’s a cornerstone of East Asian identity. Seeing these artifacts together offers a tangible link to history, like a real-life National Treasure sequel! For travelers and history buffs, this is a once-in-a-generation chance to witness resilience in metal form.
Discover the Timeless Magic of Beijing’s Old…
