Zhu Fenghan, curator of the museum, said that the exhibits illustrate the panorama of history and religion in Tibet. Some of the relics will be on display for the first time in Beijing, he said.

"Visitors will be able to learn about the Tibetan people's high level of artistry and creativity, as well as their friendly relationship with other peoples," the curator said.

The exhibits will include Neolithic relics dating back 4,000 years, statues of Buddha, Thangka (Tibetan scroll paintings), porcelain wares and scripture rolls.

In addition to the 34 pieces of Thangka, Chen Yu, the exhibition supervisor, said, the most treasured relics include a 1, 300-year-old sutra roll, a hand-written copy of the Legend of King Gesar, an ivory carving illustrated with stories of Sakyamuni, and seals of office bestowed by emperors of the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties (1271-1911) on Tibetan religious and other leaders.

The exhibition will also mark the 50th anniversary of the peaceful liberation of Tibet.

(People's Daily 08/07/2001)