The Archaeological Site Museum of Gumie State resembles a massive jade ornament when viewed from above. [Photo/WeChat account: qujiangfabu]

The Archaeological Site Museum of Gumie State, a part of the Archaeological Site Park of Gumie State located in Qujiang district, Quzhou, Zhejiang province, began trial operations on June 12, inviting visitors to explore the ancient Gumie culture.

The ancient state of Gumie has a history of over 3,000 years, dating back to the Western Zhou Dynasty (1046–771 BC). During the Spring and Autumn Period (770–476 BC), it became a vassal of the Yue Kingdom, centered in present-day Qujiang district and Longyou county of Quzhou.

Artifacts displayed in the Archaeological Site Museum of Gumie State. [Photo/Tide News]

From 2018 to 2021, archaeological excavations in Qujiang's Yunxi township, north of the Qujiang River, uncovered four earthen mound tombs from the Western Zhou Dynasty, which contained a wealth of valuable artifacts, including jade, stone tools, primitive ceramics, and bronze items.

Artifacts including the bronze dragon-head fittings from noble carriages and jade ornaments reveal the aesthetic preferences of the Gumei people. The jade ornaments, intentionally crafted with gaps, highlight a preference for "imperfect beauty", contrasting with the complete jade discs of the Liangzhu culture, from about 5,300 to 4,300 years ago.

Through these artifacts, the ingenuity and creativity of the Gumei people are showcased, offering insights into their life, trade, and cultural exchanges over three millennia ago.