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12 Heads from the Garden of Perfect Brightness

99% Invisible

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Cultural Significance and Repatriation: The Bronze Heads Auction

This chapter examines the heated auction of significant bronze animal heads tied to China's cultural heritage, revealing a protest against their sale as symbols of looted artifacts. It delves into the historical context of the Yuan Ming Yuan's plunder during the Second Opium War, exploring issues surrounding cultural repatriation and national pride. The narrative highlights the broader implications of this auction within the ongoing debate over the ownership and ethical responsibilities of cultural artifacts.

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