"A horse treading on a bookcase is full of poetic meaning.

The gilt horse has an ancient style."

Giltware, an ancient craft, not only carries rich historical information, but also is a bright pearl among the treasures of Chinese culture. With its unique artistic charm and profound cultural connotation, it has attracted the attention of countless people, and become a sought-after object by collectors, history enthusiasts and art connoisseurs.

藝術中心館藏（戰漢 銅鎏金古獸貴（跪）人油燈）

I. Historical Value of Giltware

The history of giltware, i.e. metal artifacts made by gilding technique, can be traced back to thousands of years ago. In ancient China, gilding was widely used in the decoration of palaces and temples, as well as in the daily life of the nobles. Giltware not only represents the technical level and aesthetic concepts of the society at that time, but also reflects the religious beliefs, social customs and cultural exchanges at that time. Through the study of giltware, we can gain a deeper understanding of the history and culture of ancient societies.

藝術中心館藏（漢代 羊形銅鎏金）

1.Artistic Value of Giltware

The artistic value of giltware is mainly realized in its exquisite craftsmanship and unique style. Gilding is a technique of synthesizing gold and mercury into a certain proportion of amalgam, also known as "gold clay", and applying it to the surface of copper wares, and then heating the mercury to evaporate it, so that the gold adheres to the surface of the wares and does not come off, making them even more exquisite and luxurious. This technique requires not only the skill and patience of the craftsman, but also an in-depth understanding of the nature of the metal material. Therefore, each piece of giltware is the crystallization of the craftsmen's efforts and has a high artistic value.

藝術中心館藏（東周  銅鎏金異形瑞獸）

The styles of gilt wares are also varied, ranging from the solemn and grand court style to the delicate and refined folk style. These different styles of giltware not only showed the creativity and talent of the craftsmen, but also reflected the aesthetic concepts and cultural trends of the society at that time. Whether it is the gorgeous decoration of the palace or the solemnity of the temple, the gilt ware has become a treasure in the treasury of Chinese culture with its unique artistic charm.

戰漢 銅鎏金古獸貴（跪）人油燈 局部图

2.CulturalSsignificance of Giltware

Giltware is not only a work of art and historical relic, but also an important carrier of Chinese culture. It contains rich cultural connotation and profound historical significance, and is a bridge connecting ancient and modern, traditional and contemporary. Through the study and appreciation of giltware, we can gain a deeper understanding of the profoundness and unique charm of Chinese culture.

藝術中心館藏（春秋  龍首蟠螭紋銅鎏金提梁盉（he））

All in all, with its unique artistic charm and profound cultural connotation, giltware has become a bright pearl in the treasury of Chinese culture. It not only has high historical and artistic value, but also is an important carrier for the transmission and promotion of Chinese culture. We should cherish these valuable cultural heritages and pass on and carry forward the excellent traditions and spirit of Chinese culture.