On September 29, the Guilin Museum proudly launched a significant exhibition titled “Ancient Fishing and Hunting Civilizations: The History and Culture of Fish Skin, Animal Skin, and Birch Bark in Heilongjiang.” This captivating event is a collaboration between the Guilin Museum and the Heilongjiang Provincial Museum.

Can you share the essence of this exhibit with us?

Absolutely. The exhibit delves into what we refer to as “Sanpi Culture,” which encapsulates the rich material and spiritual heritage developed by Northern ethnic minorities through their long-standing fishing and hunting traditions. Prominently featured is the fish skin culture of the Hezhe ethnic group, alongside animal skin cultures from the Hezhe, Oroqen, Evenki, and Daur peoples, as well as the birch bark culture. Sanpi Culture is deeply intertwined with the fishing and hunting economy, serving as a vivid representation of regional and ethnic identities. It’s not just central to the Northern fishing and hunting culture but is also a key facet of the broader cultural mosaic of the Chinese nation.

What should visitors look forward to experiencing at the exhibit?

Visitors can expect an immersive experience divided into four thematic sections: “Songs of the Three Rivers, The Beauty of Fishing Villages,” “Tracks in the Forests, The Beauty of Xing’an,” “Whispers of the Birch, Eternal Charm,” and “National Treasures: Passing Down the Fire.” The exhibition showcases 125 representative artifacts that provide a deep dive into the rich history and craftsmanship of the fishing and hunting cultures thriving in the Heilongjiang region.

How long will this exhibition be on display for the public?

This engaging exhibition will be available for public viewing until December 1. It offers a remarkable opportunity to explore the enduring traditions of the fishing and hunting communities of Heilongjiang.