SCR Talk: From the Forbidden City to the Maritime Silk Routes by Dr Ran Zhang

SCR Talk by Dr Ran Zhang on Wednesday 18th March (7-8pm, in the BDR), organised by Dr Yu Gu. All welcome.

From the Forbidden City to the Maritime Silk Routes by Dr Ran Zhang
This presentation, led by Dr. Ran Zhang, delves into the fascinating world of ceramic archaeology. Dr. Zhang specializes in applying chronological and quantitative methods to study ancient manufacturing techniques, art appreciation, and the intricate trade networks that shaped civilizations. As both a ceramicist and an archaeologist, her research provides unique insights into the historical, social, economic, and cultural transformations that occurred during medieval Eurasia’s early globalization.

Through the lens of imperial artifacts from the Forbidden City, this discussion will explore the long-standing collaboration between Durham University and the Palace Museum in Beijing. Dr. Zhang’s work illuminates how long-distance trade between ancient China, the Islamic World, and Europe fostered profound artistic and cultural exchanges. By meticulously examining archaeological evidence – particularly ceramics and their distribution – her research traces the pathways of trade, the ebb and flow of cultural influences, the evolution of value systems, and the technical innovations that transcended geographical boundaries, connecting directly to the global journeys of these treasured objects along ancient maritime routes.