Interview: Bringing the story of China's only empress to Europe: Dutch museum director

LEEUWARDEN, Netherlands, Oct. 27 (Xinhua) - The exhibition "Wu Zetian: the Only Female Emperor of China" debuted Friday night at the Princessehof National Museum of Ceramics in Leeuwarden, a city in northern Netherlands.

Kris Callens, General Director of the museum, underscored Wu Zetian's extraordinary life story. "She is truly unique in world history, and we want the European public to know her," he said, expressing admiration for "all the wonderful ceramics" featured in the exhibition.

A collaborative effort between cultural institutions from China and the Netherlands, the exhibition showcases 105 artifacts from eight Chinese museums. It presents Wu Zetian's ascent from an ordinary woman to the highest ruler during the Tang Dynasty (624-705) from a first-person perspective.

The display includes exquisite items such as pottery figurines, jewelry, bronze mirrors, porcelain, and gold and silver wares. These artifacts are contextualized within the historical and social landscape of the Tang Dynasty, vividly illustrating Wu Zetian's remarkable and tumultuous life.

Callens highlighted the exhibition's uniqueness, noting that several pieces have never before been displayed in Europe. "This is a European premiere, and we are very proud of that," he stated.

He added that Wu Zetian's story can provide Western audiences with a deeper understanding of Chinese culture, which has thrived for thousands of years. "We aim to build bridges through culture between civilizations," he said.

Callens also emphasized the museum's commitment to fostering cultural exchanges with Chinese partners. "While we have this exhibition now, we are in discussions with collaborators in China about future projects."

The exhibition will run until May 25, 2025.