Over 900 artifacts recovered from Ming dynasty shipwreck

Archaeologists have recovered over 900 artifacts from two Ming Dynasty shipwrecks located in the South China Sea, as reported by China's National Cultural Heritage Administration (NCHA). The Ming Dynasty, which lasted from 1368 to 1644, was a significant period for Chinese trade, particularly known for its blue and white porcelain. The shipwrecks, discovered in 2022 approximately 14 miles apart and nearly 5,000 feet underwater, are believed to have originated from Jingdezhen, a key porcelain export center.

Since the start of 2023, researchers have been surveying and retrieving artifacts from the wrecks using submersibles, cameras, and laser technology. So far, 890 items have been recovered from the first ship, including copper coins and porcelain, while the second ship has yielded 38 artifacts, such as deer antlers and pottery. The artifacts are thought to date back to the late 15th and early 16th centuries, showcasing the artistic styles of the Ming Dynasty.

Guan Qiang, deputy head of the NCHA, emphasized the importance of these discoveries in illustrating the trade and cultural exchanges along the ancient Maritime Silk Road. The ongoing excavation efforts suggest that many more artifacts remain to be uncovered, promising further insights into China's maritime history and its interactions with other cultures during the Ming era.