Ep 14. Secrets of the Tang Treasure Ship
- August 8, 2009
In the episode "Secrets of the Tang Treasure Ship" from the 2009 season of National Geographic Documentaries, viewers are taken on a journey through history to uncover the mysteries of a sunken ship from the Tang dynasty. The Tang dynasty, which reigned from 618 to 907 AD, was a period of great prosperity and cultural advancement in China. During this time, the Tang Treasure Ship was built and filled with treasures from all over the world. It was then sent on a voyage, but tragically sank at sea.
The documentary follows a team of archaeologists and scientists as they embark on a quest to uncover the secrets of the Tang Treasure Ship. They use advanced technology to map the sea floor and locate the shipwreck. Once they find it, they dive down to the site to excavate what remains of the ship and its precious cargo.
Through interviews with experts, the episode provides historical context on the significance of the Tang dynasty and explains why the Tang Treasure Ship was such an important piece of history. The ship was massive for its time and was the largest wooden ship ever constructed. It was a symbol of the power and wealth of the Tang dynasty and was filled with treasures including gold, silver, porcelain, and silk.
The documentary also delves into the challenges of underwater archaeology. The team must navigate strong currents, unpredictable weather, and the delicate nature of the artifacts. However, through careful planning and expert analysis, they are able to excavate a number of amazing artifacts from the ship.
One of the most fascinating artifacts they uncover is a stone sculpture. The sculpture is of a mythical creature known as a qilin, which is believed to bring good luck and fortune. The qilin is made of green turquoise and is incredibly intricate in its detail. It is a beautiful representation of the craftsmanship of the Tang dynasty.
Another highlight of the episode is the unveiling of a gold ingot. The ingot is massive and weighs over one kilogram. It is intricately designed with a variety of motifs and is a testament to the skill of Tang dynasty goldsmiths. The team also uncovers a number of silver coins from various parts of the world, including Arabia and Persia.
As the team continues to excavate the shipwreck, they uncover more and more artifacts. Each item tells a story about the people who made it, traded it, and ultimately lost it at sea. The episode concludes with the team reflecting on the significance of their discoveries and sharing their excitement about what else may be hidden beneath the sea.
Overall, "Secrets of the Tang Treasure Ship" is a fascinating look at the intersection of history and technology. Through the use of cutting-edge tools and techniques, the team is able to bring to light a piece of history that has been lost for centuries. Viewers are sure to be captivated by the adventure and the incredible artifacts that are uncovered.
