China Accepts Two Relics Returned by Australian National Gallery

A ceremony in Canberra on Wednesday marked the return of two Chinese cultural relics from the National Gallery of Australia to China.

The National Cultural Heritage Administration of China accepted the objects during the event. Thang Wei, the administration's Deputy Director, Liu Jinsong, China's Ambassador to Australia, and Nick Mitzevich, Director of the National Gallery of Australia, all spoke at the ceremony.

The event also drew representatives from Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the federal arts ministry and other relevant organizations.

China said that returning lost relics to their homeland is a righteous act that upholds the protection of heritage across all countries. It also said such efforts respect the cultural rights and national emotions of people worldwide and help preserve humanity's shared achievements. According to Chinese officials, the cooperation reflects the commitment of both nations to international conventions and to safeguarding cultural legacy. They expect it to further strengthen humanities exchanges and public understanding between the two countries.

Australia said the return of cultural objects goes beyond a simple transfer. In its view, the move demonstrates respect for heritage, a sense of accountability and international partnership. Australian officials expressed hope that the return would deepen friendly relations between the two countries and promote sustained cooperation in heritage protection.

The two relics are the head of a military official statue and the head of a civil official statue from the imperial tomb of the Northern Song Dynasty. Earlier published collection records of the National Gallery of Australia state that both pieces originated in Henan Province, China.