A glass-gilt bronze ornament in the form of a divine beast with inlaid eyes from the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC), excavated in the Lianhu District of Xi'an, Shaanxi Province. [Xinhua]

An exhibition of ancient glassware that reflects cultural exchanges along the Silk Road opened Tuesday in Xi'an, capital of Northwest China's Shaanxi Province.

A total of 325 ancient glassware objects, dating from 16th century BC to 14th century AD, are on display at the Xi'an Museum.

The exhibition not only introduces the development and characteristics of glass art, but also presents the diverse culture along the ancient Silk Road by showing the development and exchange of glass art in different periods and cultural settings.

"The glassware witnessed the exchange and integration of culture, art and technology along the Silk Road," said Yu Hongjian, curator of the museum. "We hope that more visitors will learn about the story of the Silk Road and feel its charm by appreciating the exhibited treasures."

The exhibition, co-organized by the Xi'an Museum and Japan's Hirayama Ikuo Silk Road Museum, will last until Aug 18.

Appliquéd vase from the Eastern Mediterranean dating back to 1st to 2nd century AD. [Xinhua]

(Source: Xinhua)