Exploring what makes Chinese civilization

China Before China, an upcoming documentary series produced by Shanghai Media Group, aims to trace the historical stories behind a total of 50 artifacts which span nearly 8,000 years.

In a promotional video released on Monday, some treasures are displayed, such as Lingjiatan Jade Eagle, estimated to date back to around 5,500 years ago; Da Ke Ding, a bronze tripod from the Western Zhou Dynasty (c. 11th century-771 BC); and Tri-colored Glazed Pottery Camel with Musicians from Tang Dynasty (618-907).

Chief director Gan Chao said the charm of archaeology is to explore human activities and societal evolution behind the artifacts and relics.

Under the guidance of the National Cultural Heritage Administration and the Publicity Department of the CPC Shanghai Municipal Committee, the documentary has invited prestigious archaeologists Yan Wenming and Qin Ling as the chief consultant and chief academic producer respectively.

Aiming to take their audience exploring how Chinese civilization has been shaped and developed over thousands of years, the documentary will be broadcasted on Shanghai's Dragon Television in the coming months.