Tang West Market, located in Xi'an, is a modern-era replica of a prosperous commercial market from the Tang dynasty.

And just like the Old Summer Palace, the market recently saw its own return of thousands of relics that had been lost overseas.

These repatriated pieces span a long historical period; so to celebrate, the market held a grand ceremony to mark their return.

Tang West Market, a vibrant shopping area some 1,300 years ago, has seen a revival recently as the city has rebuilt the complex on its original site.

And a grand ceremony was held here on Monday to welcome the return of relics previously lost overseas. The ten-thousand returned relics, offered by some 50 auction houses from both home and abroad, will be exhibited at the Market's International Exhibition Hall.

Spectators witnessed the unveiling of the most significant ones, a Ming dynasty gilded bronze Goddess of Mercy, a Ming dynasty bronze Buddha statue, and a royal jade vase made during the reign of Qianlong.

The relics that have traveled such a long distance back to China include a bronze quadripod from Shang dynasty created three thousand years ago, a jade pendant from the warring states period around 400 BC, a stone beast ornament from around 500 AD, and a Qing dynasty vessel made from horn of rhinocerous.

The exhibition, which runs for seven days, has attracted auction houses, institutions, and private collectors from all around the country.

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