A copper relief painting presented as a diplomatic gift from Zambia to China has shown the unique regional culture, rich resources and good relations between China and the African country, said the curator of an exhibition in Beijing which showcases more than 670 representative gifts given and received by Chinese officials in diplomatic activities since the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949.
The painting of an eagle was presented to Chinese President Xi Jinping by then Zambian President Michael Sata when he came to China to attend the opening ceremony of the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference in 2013.
"At the center of the painting is a copper sculpture of a majestic eagle, poised to take flight. The eagle is Zambia's national bird, symbolizing independence and freedom, and is also a key element of the Zambian emblem. Below the eagle, a clear blue river winds its way across a vast expanse of land. Zambia is famous for the Zambezi River, the fourth-longest river in Africa. It has an extensive network of tributaries, connecting hundreds of small streams," said Hou Chunyan, curator of the Exhibition of Diplomatic Gifts Received by China's Leaders.
Zambia is known as the country of copper, with extensive, high-quality copper deposits and significant reserves. It also has a long history of copper craftsmanship, and its prestigious brass products are highly valued across the country.
"Zambia's copper relief paintings feature a wide range of themes that reflect everyday life for many of its people, as well as depictions of birds and animals, pastoral landscapes, and more. The carving techniques are exceptional. This piece on display has rich layers and intricate craftsmanship, showcasing Zambia's traditional artistry to its fullest," she said.
When talking about Zambian copper products, the curator also mentioned the Tanzania-Zambia Railway. The Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) railway line which runs between Dar es Salam in Tanzania and Kapiri Mposhi in Zambia was built with Chinese aid in the 1970s. The railway has become an important transport route for exporting Zambian copper ore. Hou said both the gift and the railway have witnessed the blossoming China-Africa relations.
This story introducing Zambia's relief painting is an episode of the "Gifts of Friendship" series presented by China Media Group's (CMG) English-language channel China Global Television Network (CGTN). The series focuses on the exquisite gifts sent to China by foreign countries which not only represent the cultural origin of their respective home countries, but also witness the historical friendship between China and these counterparts.
Zambian gift of copper relief painting showcases local culture, friendship with China
Zambian gift of copper relief painting showcases local culture, friendship with China
