RED LIST OF

R E D LLIOSBT
JECTS AT RI
SK
CHINESE
HINESE CULTURA CULTURAL The cultural heritage of China is protected
OF C The International Council of Museums (ICOM) is the main inter- by national and international laws and agreements:
Objective national organisation of museums and museum professionals
committed to promoting and protecting the world’s natural and OBJECTS NATIONAL LEGISLATION INTERNATIONAL INSTRUMENTS
This Red List has been designed as a tool to cultural heritage, present and future, tangible and intangible.
assist museums, dealers in art and antiquities,
collectors, and customs and law enforcement
officials in the identification of objects that may
With almost 30,000 members in 137 countries, ICOM is an
international network of museums and museum professionals
AT RISK Constitution of the People’s Republic of China, Article 22
(4 December 1982)
Convention
for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict
(The Hague, 14 May 1954)
specialised in a wide range of museological and heritage-related
have been looted and illicitly exported from disciplines. Criminal Law of the People’s Republic of China, Articles 151, 264,
and 324 to 329 (1 July 1979) UNESCO Convention
China. To facilitate identification, the Red List on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit
Created in 1946, ICOM is a non-profit non-governmental organisation
illustrates a number of categories of objects (NGO) maintaining formal relations with UNESCO and having a Law of the People’s Republic of China on Protection of Cultural Relics Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property
that are at risk of being illicitly traded on the consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social (19 November 1982) (Paris, 14 November 1970)
international antiquities market. Council (ECOSOC). Regulations concerning the Implementation of the Law UNIDROIT Convention
Objects of the types illustrated hereafter are The fight against the illicit trafficking of cultural objects is among of the People’s Republic of China on Protection of Cultural Relics on Stolen or Illegally Exported Cultural Objects
protected by Chinese legislation that specifically the top priorities of ICOM. The Red List of Chinese Cultural (13 May 2003) (Rome, 24 June 1995)
prohibits their unauthorised export and sale. Objects at Risk has been designed to prevent looting, theft, and
Protection and Management Methods on Hominid and Ancient
Therefore, ICOM appeals to museums, auction the illegal export and sale of cultural objects of China, and thus
Vertebrate Fossils (3 July 2006)
houses, dealers in art and antiquities, and to help protect the country’s cultural heritage. This publication is BILATERAL AGREEMENTS
collectors not to purchase such objects without an addition to the collection of Red Lists already published by Administrative Measures for the Entry-Exit Examination
ICOM for Africa, Latin America, Iraq, Afghanistan, Peru, Cambodia, and Verification of Cultural Relics (3 July 2007) The Government of the People’s Republic of China has signed
first having checked thoroughly their origin and
Central America and Mexico, Haiti, and Colombia. agreements or memorandums of understanding
provenance documentation. Standards for the Entry-Exit Examination and Verification
on the prevention of stealing, excavation and illegal trafficking
of Cultural Relics (3 April 2007)
Because of the great diversity of Chinese objects, of cultural goods with the following countries:
styles and periods, the Red List of Chinese http://icom.museum Interim Provisions on the Limitation of the Export of Works Australia, Chile, Cyprus, Ethiopia, Greece, India, Italy, Peru,
Cultural Objects at Risk is not exhaustive, and of the Famous Late Painters after 1949, and Interim Provisions
This Red List was developed with the generous support of: Philippines, Turkey, United States of America, and Venezuela.
any antiquity originating from China should be on the Limitation of the Export of Works of the Famous Late
subjected to detailed scrutiny and precautionary Painters from 1795 to 1949 (15 November 2001)
Stone statue of Buddha, Tang Dynasty, 98 x 28 cm. measures.
© China Relic Information Consultation Centre

© 2010, ICOM, all rights reserved. - Graphic design: TAM TAM TEAM, 4/2011.
Introduction Eleven ICOM Red Lists published to date:
China’s rich cultural heritage reflects the diversity Red List of African Archaeological Objects, 2000
and complexity of the cultures that have flou-
Red List of Latin American Cultural Objects at Risk, 2003
rished there for the past ten millennia. Since the U.S. Department of State If you suspect an item may be the object of illicit trade, please contact:
mid-19th century, large numbers of invaluable Emergency Red List of Iraqi Antiquities at Risk, 2003 Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs
antiquities and other cultural objects have been Red List of Afghanistan Antiquities at Risk, 2006 State Administration of Cultural Heritage Ministry of Public Security
stolen, and many of them taken abroad. During
Red List of Peruvian Antiquities at Risk, 2007
recent decades, in spite of increased efforts made No. 10, Chaoyangmen North Street No. 14, Eastern Chang’an Street
by the Chinese government to protect China’s Red List of Cambodian Antiquities at Risk, 2009
Beijing 100020 Beijing 100016
past through the enhancement of national and Red List of Endangered Cultural Objects of Central America People’s Republic of China People’s Republic of China
international legislative and other collaborative and Mexico, 2009
efforts, the looting of Chinese sites and the illicit Tel: +86 10-59881572 Tel: +86 10-66264873
trade in antiquities for domestic as well as inter- Emergency Red List of Haitian Cultural Objects at Risk, 2010 Fax: +86 10-59881573 Fax: +86 10-66263113
national markets have developed as serious Red List of Chinese Cultural Objects at Risk, 2010 E-mail: redlist@sach.gov.cn
threats that cause irreparable harm to China’s Red List of Colombian Cultural Objects at Risk, 2010 Maison de l’UNESCO
unique heritage. It is therefore the responsibility 1, rue Miollis - 75732 Paris Cedex 15 - France
of everyone – both inside and outside of China – to Emergency Red List of Egyptian Cultural Objects at Risk, 2011 Tel: +33 (0)1 47 34 05 00 - Fax: +33 (0)1 43 06 78 62
help preserve this heritage for future generations. E-mail: secretariat@icom.museum - Website: http://icom.museum
 RED LIST OF

R E D LLIOSBT
JECTS AT RI
SK
CHINESE
HINESE CULTURA CULTURAL The cultural heritage of China is protected
OF C The International Council of Museums (ICOM) is the main inter- by national and international laws and agreements:
Objective national organisation of museums and museum professionals
committed to promoting and protecting the world’s natural and OBJECTS NATIONAL LEGISLATION INTERNATIONAL INSTRUMENTS
This Red List has been designed as a tool to cultural heritage, present and future, tangible and intangible.
assist museums, dealers in art and antiquities,
collectors, and customs and law enforcement
officials in the identification of objects that may
With almost 30,000 members in 137 countries, ICOM is an
international network of museums and museum professionals
AT RISK Constitution of the People’s Republic of China, Article 22
(4 December 1982)
Convention
for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict
(The Hague, 14 May 1954)
specialised in a wide range of museological and heritage-related
have been looted and illicitly exported from disciplines. Criminal Law of the People’s Republic of China, Articles 151, 264,
and 324 to 329 (1 July 1979) UNESCO Convention
China. To facilitate identification, the Red List on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit
Created in 1946, ICOM is a non-profit non-governmental organisation
illustrates a number of categories of objects (NGO) maintaining formal relations with UNESCO and having a Law of the People’s Republic of China on Protection of Cultural Relics Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property
that are at risk of being illicitly traded on the consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social (19 November 1982) (Paris, 14 November 1970)
international antiquities market. Council (ECOSOC). Regulations concerning the Implementation of the Law UNIDROIT Convention
Objects of the types illustrated hereafter are The fight against the illicit trafficking of cultural objects is among of the People’s Republic of China on Protection of Cultural Relics on Stolen or Illegally Exported Cultural Objects
protected by Chinese legislation that specifically the top priorities of ICOM. The Red List of Chinese Cultural (13 May 2003) (Rome, 24 June 1995)
prohibits their unauthorised export and sale. Objects at Risk has been designed to prevent looting, theft, and
Protection and Management Methods on Hominid and Ancient
Therefore, ICOM appeals to museums, auction the illegal export and sale of cultural objects of China, and thus
Vertebrate Fossils (3 July 2006)
houses, dealers in art and antiquities, and to help protect the country’s cultural heritage. This publication is BILATERAL AGREEMENTS
collectors not to purchase such objects without an addition to the collection of Red Lists already published by Administrative Measures for the Entry-Exit Examination
ICOM for Africa, Latin America, Iraq, Afghanistan, Peru, Cambodia, and Verification of Cultural Relics (3 July 2007) The Government of the People’s Republic of China has signed
first having checked thoroughly their origin and
Central America and Mexico, Haiti, and Colombia. agreements or memorandums of understanding
provenance documentation. Standards for the Entry-Exit Examination and Verification
on the prevention of stealing, excavation and illegal trafficking
of Cultural Relics (3 April 2007)
Because of the great diversity of Chinese objects, of cultural goods with the following countries:
styles and periods, the Red List of Chinese http://icom.museum Interim Provisions on the Limitation of the Export of Works Australia, Chile, Cyprus, Ethiopia, Greece, India, Italy, Peru,
Cultural Objects at Risk is not exhaustive, and of the Famous Late Painters after 1949, and Interim Provisions
This Red List was developed with the generous support of: Philippines, Turkey, United States of America, and Venezuela.
any antiquity originating from China should be on the Limitation of the Export of Works of the Famous Late
subjected to detailed scrutiny and precautionary Painters from 1795 to 1949 (15 November 2001)
Stone statue of Buddha, Tang Dynasty, 98 x 28 cm. measures.
© China Relic Information Consultation Centre

© 2010, ICOM, all rights reserved. - Graphic design: TAM TAM TEAM, 4/2011.
Introduction Eleven ICOM Red Lists published to date:
China’s rich cultural heritage reflects the diversity Red List of African Archaeological Objects, 2000
and complexity of the cultures that have flou-
Red List of Latin American Cultural Objects at Risk, 2003
rished there for the past ten millennia. Since the U.S. Department of State If you suspect an item may be the object of illicit trade, please contact:
mid-19th century, large numbers of invaluable Emergency Red List of Iraqi Antiquities at Risk, 2003 Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs
antiquities and other cultural objects have been Red List of Afghanistan Antiquities at Risk, 2006 State Administration of Cultural Heritage Ministry of Public Security
stolen, and many of them taken abroad. During
Red List of Peruvian Antiquities at Risk, 2007
recent decades, in spite of increased efforts made No. 10, Chaoyangmen North Street No. 14, Eastern Chang’an Street
by the Chinese government to protect China’s Red List of Cambodian Antiquities at Risk, 2009
Beijing 100020 Beijing 100016
past through the enhancement of national and Red List of Endangered Cultural Objects of Central America People’s Republic of China People’s Republic of China
international legislative and other collaborative and Mexico, 2009
efforts, the looting of Chinese sites and the illicit Tel: +86 10-59881572 Tel: +86 10-66264873
trade in antiquities for domestic as well as inter- Emergency Red List of Haitian Cultural Objects at Risk, 2010 Fax: +86 10-59881573 Fax: +86 10-66263113
national markets have developed as serious Red List of Chinese Cultural Objects at Risk, 2010 E-mail: redlist@sach.gov.cn
threats that cause irreparable harm to China’s Red List of Colombian Cultural Objects at Risk, 2010 Maison de l’UNESCO
unique heritage. It is therefore the responsibility 1, rue Miollis - 75732 Paris Cedex 15 - France
of everyone – both inside and outside of China – to Emergency Red List of Egyptian Cultural Objects at Risk, 2011 Tel: +33 (0)1 47 34 05 00 - Fax: +33 (0)1 43 06 78 62
help preserve this heritage for future generations. E-mail: secretariat@icom.museum - Website: http://icom.museum
 RED LIST OF

R E D LLIOSBT
JECTS AT RI
SK
CHINESE
HINESE CULTURA CULTURAL The cultural heritage of China is protected
OF C The International Council of Museums (ICOM) is the main inter- by national and international laws and agreements:
Objective national organisation of museums and museum professionals
committed to promoting and protecting the world’s natural and OBJECTS NATIONAL LEGISLATION INTERNATIONAL INSTRUMENTS
This Red List has been designed as a tool to cultural heritage, present and future, tangible and intangible.
assist museums, dealers in art and antiquities,
collectors, and customs and law enforcement
officials in the identification of objects that may
With almost 30,000 members in 137 countries, ICOM is an
international network of museums and museum professionals
AT RISK Constitution of the People’s Republic of China, Article 22
(4 December 1982)
Convention
for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict
(The Hague, 14 May 1954)
specialised in a wide range of museological and heritage-related
have been looted and illicitly exported from disciplines. Criminal Law of the People’s Republic of China, Articles 151, 264,
and 324 to 329 (1 July 1979) UNESCO Convention
China. To facilitate identification, the Red List on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit
Created in 1946, ICOM is a non-profit non-governmental organisation
illustrates a number of categories of objects (NGO) maintaining formal relations with UNESCO and having a Law of the People’s Republic of China on Protection of Cultural Relics Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property
that are at risk of being illicitly traded on the consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social (19 November 1982) (Paris, 14 November 1970)
international antiquities market. Council (ECOSOC). Regulations concerning the Implementation of the Law UNIDROIT Convention
Objects of the types illustrated hereafter are The fight against the illicit trafficking of cultural objects is among of the People’s Republic of China on Protection of Cultural Relics on Stolen or Illegally Exported Cultural Objects
protected by Chinese legislation that specifically the top priorities of ICOM. The Red List of Chinese Cultural (13 May 2003) (Rome, 24 June 1995)
prohibits their unauthorised export and sale. Objects at Risk has been designed to prevent looting, theft, and
Protection and Management Methods on Hominid and Ancient
Therefore, ICOM appeals to museums, auction the illegal export and sale of cultural objects of China, and thus
Vertebrate Fossils (3 July 2006)
houses, dealers in art and antiquities, and to help protect the country’s cultural heritage. This publication is BILATERAL AGREEMENTS
collectors not to purchase such objects without an addition to the collection of Red Lists already published by Administrative Measures for the Entry-Exit Examination
ICOM for Africa, Latin America, Iraq, Afghanistan, Peru, Cambodia, and Verification of Cultural Relics (3 July 2007) The Government of the People’s Republic of China has signed
first having checked thoroughly their origin and
Central America and Mexico, Haiti, and Colombia. agreements or memorandums of understanding
provenance documentation. Standards for the Entry-Exit Examination and Verification
on the prevention of stealing, excavation and illegal trafficking
of Cultural Relics (3 April 2007)
Because of the great diversity of Chinese objects, of cultural goods with the following countries:
styles and periods, the Red List of Chinese http://icom.museum Interim Provisions on the Limitation of the Export of Works Australia, Chile, Cyprus, Ethiopia, Greece, India, Italy, Peru,
Cultural Objects at Risk is not exhaustive, and of the Famous Late Painters after 1949, and Interim Provisions
This Red List was developed with the generous support of: Philippines, Turkey, United States of America, and Venezuela.
any antiquity originating from China should be on the Limitation of the Export of Works of the Famous Late
subjected to detailed scrutiny and precautionary Painters from 1795 to 1949 (15 November 2001)
Stone statue of Buddha, Tang Dynasty, 98 x 28 cm. measures.
© China Relic Information Consultation Centre

© 2010, ICOM, all rights reserved. - Graphic design: TAM TAM TEAM, 4/2011.
Introduction Eleven ICOM Red Lists published to date:
China’s rich cultural heritage reflects the diversity Red List of African Archaeological Objects, 2000
and complexity of the cultures that have flou-
Red List of Latin American Cultural Objects at Risk, 2003
rished there for the past ten millennia. Since the U.S. Department of State If you suspect an item may be the object of illicit trade, please contact:
mid-19th century, large numbers of invaluable Emergency Red List of Iraqi Antiquities at Risk, 2003 Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs
antiquities and other cultural objects have been Red List of Afghanistan Antiquities at Risk, 2006 State Administration of Cultural Heritage Ministry of Public Security
stolen, and many of them taken abroad. During
Red List of Peruvian Antiquities at Risk, 2007
recent decades, in spite of increased efforts made No. 10, Chaoyangmen North Street No. 14, Eastern Chang’an Street
by the Chinese government to protect China’s Red List of Cambodian Antiquities at Risk, 2009
Beijing 100020 Beijing 100016
past through the enhancement of national and Red List of Endangered Cultural Objects of Central America People’s Republic of China People’s Republic of China
international legislative and other collaborative and Mexico, 2009
efforts, the looting of Chinese sites and the illicit Tel: +86 10-59881572 Tel: +86 10-66264873
trade in antiquities for domestic as well as inter- Emergency Red List of Haitian Cultural Objects at Risk, 2010 Fax: +86 10-59881573 Fax: +86 10-66263113
national markets have developed as serious Red List of Chinese Cultural Objects at Risk, 2010 E-mail: redlist@sach.gov.cn
threats that cause irreparable harm to China’s Red List of Colombian Cultural Objects at Risk, 2010 Maison de l’UNESCO
unique heritage. It is therefore the responsibility 1, rue Miollis - 75732 Paris Cedex 15 - France
of everyone – both inside and outside of China – to Emergency Red List of Egyptian Cultural Objects at Risk, 2011 Tel: +33 (0)1 47 34 05 00 - Fax: +33 (0)1 43 06 78 62
help preserve this heritage for future generations. E-mail: secretariat@icom.museum - Website: http://icom.museum
R E D L I S T O F C H I N E S E C U L T U R A L O B J E C T S A T R I S K R E D L I S T O F C H I N E S E C U L T U R A L O B J E C T S A T R I S K

THE RED LIST INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING CATEGORIES:

(The photographs reproduced do not depict stolen objects; they illustrate the categories of cultural objects that are vulnerable to illicit traffic.) Metals (bronze, gold, silver, lead, tin, iron, etc.) From the Xia Dynasty (ca. 2070 BC) to 1949 AD Painting and calligraphy Prior to 1949 AD Architectural elements Prior to 1949 AD
ICOM wishes to thank the following institutions for the illustrations provided: China Cultural Relics Information and Consultation Center, The Palace Museum, Bronze: food, wine and water vessels, musical instruments, weapons, chariot and horse hardware, Painting and calligraphy including text, portraits, landscapes, birds and flowers. [illus. 25-26-27-28] Architectural elements and ornamental objects made of wood,
China Numismatic Museum (Beijing), Shaanxi History Museum (Xi'an), Ethnic Costume Museum of the Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology, Jingzhou Museum everyday utensils, and other ornaments. [illus. 10-11-12-13-14-15] stone, brick, tile, and metal. [illus. 37-38]
(Hubei), and the Wudangshan Museum (Hubei). © All photographic rights are reserved by the China Cultural Relics Information and Consultation Center. 25. Painting hand scroll, Ming and Qing Dynasties, 120 x 200 cm.
26. Wall painting from a tomb, Tang Dynasty, 110 x 68 cm. 37. Glazed decorative element, Ming Dynasty, 85 x 80 cm.
Ceramics From the Neolithic Age (ca. 8000 BC) to 1949 AD 27. Thangka, Qing Dynasty, 90 x 54 cm. 38. Wooden ridge beam decoration, Ming Dynasty, length: 150 cm.
11 12
Monochrome, painted, glazed, and tri-coloured pottery; celadon, white, coloured, and blue-and-white porcelain; 28. Calligraphy hand scroll, Qing Dynasty, 103 x 63 cm.
the shapes vary from bottles, jars, pots, bowls, dishes, to human figures and animal models. [illus. 1-2-3-4-5]
10 37 38

Lacquer From the Neolithic Age (ca. 8000 BC) to 1949 AD

Cups, boxes, containers and desks, with wooden or fabric surfaces painted with lacquer. [illus. 39-40]

39. Oval lacquer cup, Western Han Dynasty, 17.5 x 9.2 x 5.4 cm.
25 26 27 28 40. Painted lacquer container, Western Han Dynasty, 34 x 24 cm.
1 13 14 15

10. Bronze gui container, Western Zhou Dynasty, 24 x 26 cm. 13. Bronze bell, Spring and Autumn period, 70 x 23 cm.
Inscriptions From the Shang Dynasty (1600 BC) to 1949 AD 39 40
11. Bronze ding tripod, Western Zhou Dynasty, 46 x 32 cm. 14. Bronze gu vessel, Shang Dynasty, 15 x 10.7 cm. Ancient characters cast, engraved or impressed on such
materials as animal bone, turtle shell, pottery, stone, Numismatics Prior to 1949 AD
12. Bronze mirror, Han Dynasty, Ø 18 cm. 15. Bronze jue vessel, Shang Dynasty, 22.8 cm.
clay, bamboo, wood, metal, etc. [illus. 29-30-31] Coins and paper currency, moulds for casting coins. [illus. 41-42-43-44-45]
2 3 4 5
Gold and silver: religious or utilitarian objects, and ornaments. [illus. 16-17]
1. Pottery jar, Neolithic Age, 50 x 18.4 cm. 4. Celadon zun vase, Southern and Northern Dynasties, 79 x 19 cm.
29. Oracle bone, Shang Dynasty, 29.8 x 22.2 x 4.4 cm.
2. Five-colour porcelain covered jar, Ming Dynasty, 32 x 38 cm. 5. Blue-and-white porcelain vase, Ming Dynasty, 45 x 24 cm. 16. Gold plaque, Warring States period, 8 x 13.8 cm.
30. Rubbing book, Song Dynasty, 18 x 24 cm.
3. Painted earthenware horseman, Tang Dynasty, 32.5 x 32 cm. 17. Gilded silver pitcher, Southern Song Dynasty, 23.4 cm.
31. Wooden slip, Han Dynasty, length: 37 cm.
16 17 29 30 31
Sculpture From the Neolithic Age (ca. 8000 BC) to 1949 AD
Folk objects Prior to 1949 AD
Portraits, figures and models in stone, wood, metal, and brick. [illus. 6-7-8-9] Rubbings From the Tang Dynasty (618 AD) to 1949 AD 41 42 43 44 45
Everyday utensils and folk arts, such as New Year pictures, paper-cuts, clay figurines;
Calligraphy or images taken from steles, cliffs,
also objects such as lamps, locks, tea and food vessels, toys, chess, and cards.
inscriptions and decorations of vessels; reproduced 41. Bronze spade-shaped currency, Spring and Autumn period, 5.8 x 2.8 cm. 43. Silver ingot, Southern Song Dynasty, 11.4 x 7 x 4.7 cm.
[illus. 18-19]
on paper in black or red ink. [illus. 32-33] 42. Gilded bronze coin, Tang Dynasty, Ø 2.4 cm. 44. Mould for casting coins, Southern Dynasty, 10.5 x 10.8 x 10.6 cm.
18. Ivory belt hook (5.8 cm) and tablet (8.2 cm), Sui Dynasty. 45. Paper currency, Qing Dynasty, 18.9 x 9.4 cm.
19. Leather silhouette puppet, Qing Dynasty, 16 x 8 cm. 18 19 32. Stone stele rubbing, Qing Dynasty, 59 x 52 cm.
33. Rubbing of bronze inscriptions, Ming and Qing Dynasties, 46 x 32 cm. Textile and accessories Prior to 1949 AD
32 33
Jade and semi-precious stones From the Neolithic Age (ca. 8000 BC) to 1949 AD Garments and personal adornments of various ethnic groups. [illus. 46-47-48-49]
Ritual tools, burial objects and everyday utensils. [illus. 20-21-22-23-24] Books and documents From the Zhou Dynasty (1046 BC) to 1949 AD
Inscriptions and decorative patterns written, carved or printed on a wide variety of materials such as bamboo,
wood, silk or paper. These include bamboo and wood slips, woodblock-printed books, rare archival documents,
letters, maps and handwriting. [illus. 34-35-36] 46 47
48 49
6

20 21 22 23 24
34 35 36
7 8 9
20. White jade bi disc, Warring States period, Ø 22 cm. 22. White jade ornament, Yuan Dynasty, 4.1 x 7.1 cm. 34. Bamboo slips, Han Dynasty, 2.1 x 23 cm (one slip).
6. Head of a Buddha statue, Southern and Northern Dynasties, 86 x 56 cm. 8. Painted stone panel depicting a warrior, Five Dynasties, 113.5 x 58 cm. 21. Jade “pig dragon” (zhulong), Neolithic Age, Ø 7.2 cm. 23. White jade apsara, Song Dynasty, 2.7 x 5.8 cm. 35. Letters, Ming Dynasty, 30 x 41 cm. 22 46. Embroidered silk robe, Qing Dynasty, 130 x 95 cm. 48. Pendant, Spring and Autumn period, 5.9 x 4.8 x 1.5 cm.
7. Stone stele of a Buddha and two Bodhisattvas, Six Dynasties, 37.6 cm. 9. Stone statue of a Bodhisattva, Tang Dynasty, 39 cm. 24. Jade cong tube, Neolithic Age, 31.5 x Ø 7.8 cm. 36. Handwritten letter from a literatus, Ming Dynasty, 32.5 x 28.5 cm. 47. Dress of the Miao people, Republican period, 120 x 60 cm. 49. Jade hair ornament, Neolithic Age, 23 cm.
R E D L I S T O F C H I N E S E C U L T U R A L O B J E C T S A T R I S K R E D L I S T O F C H I N E S E C U L T U R A L O B J E C T S A T R I S K

THE RED LIST INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING CATEGORIES:

(The photographs reproduced do not depict stolen objects; they illustrate the categories of cultural objects that are vulnerable to illicit traffic.) Metals (bronze, gold, silver, lead, tin, iron, etc.) From the Xia Dynasty (ca. 2070 BC) to 1949 AD Painting and calligraphy Prior to 1949 AD Architectural elements Prior to 1949 AD
ICOM wishes to thank the following institutions for the illustrations provided: China Cultural Relics Information and Consultation Center, The Palace Museum, Bronze: food, wine and water vessels, musical instruments, weapons, chariot and horse hardware, Painting and calligraphy including text, portraits, landscapes, birds and flowers. [illus. 25-26-27-28] Architectural elements and ornamental objects made of wood,
China Numismatic Museum (Beijing), Shaanxi History Museum (Xi'an), Ethnic Costume Museum of the Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology, Jingzhou Museum everyday utensils, and other ornaments. [illus. 10-11-12-13-14-15] stone, brick, tile, and metal. [illus. 37-38]
(Hubei), and the Wudangshan Museum (Hubei). © All photographic rights are reserved by the China Cultural Relics Information and Consultation Center. 25. Painting hand scroll, Ming and Qing Dynasties, 120 x 200 cm.
26. Wall painting from a tomb, Tang Dynasty, 110 x 68 cm. 37. Glazed decorative element, Ming Dynasty, 85 x 80 cm.
Ceramics From the Neolithic Age (ca. 8000 BC) to 1949 AD 27. Thangka, Qing Dynasty, 90 x 54 cm. 38. Wooden ridge beam decoration, Ming Dynasty, length: 150 cm.
11 12
Monochrome, painted, glazed, and tri-coloured pottery; celadon, white, coloured, and blue-and-white porcelain; 28. Calligraphy hand scroll, Qing Dynasty, 103 x 63 cm.
the shapes vary from bottles, jars, pots, bowls, dishes, to human figures and animal models. [illus. 1-2-3-4-5]
10 37 38

Lacquer From the Neolithic Age (ca. 8000 BC) to 1949 AD

Cups, boxes, containers and desks, with wooden or fabric surfaces painted with lacquer. [illus. 39-40]

39. Oval lacquer cup, Western Han Dynasty, 17.5 x 9.2 x 5.4 cm.
25 26 27 28 40. Painted lacquer container, Western Han Dynasty, 34 x 24 cm.
1 13 14 15

10. Bronze gui container, Western Zhou Dynasty, 24 x 26 cm. 13. Bronze bell, Spring and Autumn period, 70 x 23 cm.
Inscriptions From the Shang Dynasty (1600 BC) to 1949 AD 39 40
11. Bronze ding tripod, Western Zhou Dynasty, 46 x 32 cm. 14. Bronze gu vessel, Shang Dynasty, 15 x 10.7 cm. Ancient characters cast, engraved or impressed on such
materials as animal bone, turtle shell, pottery, stone, Numismatics Prior to 1949 AD
12. Bronze mirror, Han Dynasty, Ø 18 cm. 15. Bronze jue vessel, Shang Dynasty, 22.8 cm.
clay, bamboo, wood, metal, etc. [illus. 29-30-31] Coins and paper currency, moulds for casting coins. [illus. 41-42-43-44-45]
2 3 4 5
Gold and silver: religious or utilitarian objects, and ornaments. [illus. 16-17]
1. Pottery jar, Neolithic Age, 50 x 18.4 cm. 4. Celadon zun vase, Southern and Northern Dynasties, 79 x 19 cm.
29. Oracle bone, Shang Dynasty, 29.8 x 22.2 x 4.4 cm.
2. Five-colour porcelain covered jar, Ming Dynasty, 32 x 38 cm. 5. Blue-and-white porcelain vase, Ming Dynasty, 45 x 24 cm. 16. Gold plaque, Warring States period, 8 x 13.8 cm.
30. Rubbing book, Song Dynasty, 18 x 24 cm.
3. Painted earthenware horseman, Tang Dynasty, 32.5 x 32 cm. 17. Gilded silver pitcher, Southern Song Dynasty, 23.4 cm.
31. Wooden slip, Han Dynasty, length: 37 cm.
16 17 29 30 31
Sculpture From the Neolithic Age (ca. 8000 BC) to 1949 AD
Folk objects Prior to 1949 AD
Portraits, figures and models in stone, wood, metal, and brick. [illus. 6-7-8-9] Rubbings From the Tang Dynasty (618 AD) to 1949 AD 41 42 43 44 45
Everyday utensils and folk arts, such as New Year pictures, paper-cuts, clay figurines;
Calligraphy or images taken from steles, cliffs,
also objects such as lamps, locks, tea and food vessels, toys, chess, and cards.
inscriptions and decorations of vessels; reproduced 41. Bronze spade-shaped currency, Spring and Autumn period, 5.8 x 2.8 cm. 43. Silver ingot, Southern Song Dynasty, 11.4 x 7 x 4.7 cm.
[illus. 18-19]
on paper in black or red ink. [illus. 32-33] 42. Gilded bronze coin, Tang Dynasty, Ø 2.4 cm. 44. Mould for casting coins, Southern Dynasty, 10.5 x 10.8 x 10.6 cm.
18. Ivory belt hook (5.8 cm) and tablet (8.2 cm), Sui Dynasty. 45. Paper currency, Qing Dynasty, 18.9 x 9.4 cm.
19. Leather silhouette puppet, Qing Dynasty, 16 x 8 cm. 18 19 32. Stone stele rubbing, Qing Dynasty, 59 x 52 cm.
33. Rubbing of bronze inscriptions, Ming and Qing Dynasties, 46 x 32 cm. Textile and accessories Prior to 1949 AD
32 33
Jade and semi-precious stones From the Neolithic Age (ca. 8000 BC) to 1949 AD Garments and personal adornments of various ethnic groups. [illus. 46-47-48-49]
Ritual tools, burial objects and everyday utensils. [illus. 20-21-22-23-24] Books and documents From the Zhou Dynasty (1046 BC) to 1949 AD
Inscriptions and decorative patterns written, carved or printed on a wide variety of materials such as bamboo,
wood, silk or paper. These include bamboo and wood slips, woodblock-printed books, rare archival documents,
letters, maps and handwriting. [illus. 34-35-36] 46 47
48 49
6

20 21 22 23 24
34 35 36
7 8 9
20. White jade bi disc, Warring States period, Ø 22 cm. 22. White jade ornament, Yuan Dynasty, 4.1 x 7.1 cm. 34. Bamboo slips, Han Dynasty, 2.1 x 23 cm (one slip).
6. Head of a Buddha statue, Southern and Northern Dynasties, 86 x 56 cm. 8. Painted stone panel depicting a warrior, Five Dynasties, 113.5 x 58 cm. 21. Jade “pig dragon” (zhulong), Neolithic Age, Ø 7.2 cm. 23. White jade apsara, Song Dynasty, 2.7 x 5.8 cm. 35. Letters, Ming Dynasty, 30 x 41 cm. 22 46. Embroidered silk robe, Qing Dynasty, 130 x 95 cm. 48. Pendant, Spring and Autumn period, 5.9 x 4.8 x 1.5 cm.
7. Stone stele of a Buddha and two Bodhisattvas, Six Dynasties, 37.6 cm. 9. Stone statue of a Bodhisattva, Tang Dynasty, 39 cm. 24. Jade cong tube, Neolithic Age, 31.5 x Ø 7.8 cm. 36. Handwritten letter from a literatus, Ming Dynasty, 32.5 x 28.5 cm. 47. Dress of the Miao people, Republican period, 120 x 60 cm. 49. Jade hair ornament, Neolithic Age, 23 cm.
R E D L I S T O F C H I N E S E C U L T U R A L O B J E C T S A T R I S K R E D L I S T O F C H I N E S E C U L T U R A L O B J E C T S A T R I S K

THE RED LIST INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING CATEGORIES:

(The photographs reproduced do not depict stolen objects; they illustrate the categories of cultural objects that are vulnerable to illicit traffic.) Metals (bronze, gold, silver, lead, tin, iron, etc.) From the Xia Dynasty (ca. 2070 BC) to 1949 AD Painting and calligraphy Prior to 1949 AD Architectural elements Prior to 1949 AD
ICOM wishes to thank the following institutions for the illustrations provided: China Cultural Relics Information and Consultation Center, The Palace Museum, Bronze: food, wine and water vessels, musical instruments, weapons, chariot and horse hardware, Painting and calligraphy including text, portraits, landscapes, birds and flowers. [illus. 25-26-27-28] Architectural elements and ornamental objects made of wood,
China Numismatic Museum (Beijing), Shaanxi History Museum (Xi'an), Ethnic Costume Museum of the Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology, Jingzhou Museum everyday utensils, and other ornaments. [illus. 10-11-12-13-14-15] stone, brick, tile, and metal. [illus. 37-38]
(Hubei), and the Wudangshan Museum (Hubei). © All photographic rights are reserved by the China Cultural Relics Information and Consultation Center. 25. Painting hand scroll, Ming and Qing Dynasties, 120 x 200 cm.
26. Wall painting from a tomb, Tang Dynasty, 110 x 68 cm. 37. Glazed decorative element, Ming Dynasty, 85 x 80 cm.
Ceramics From the Neolithic Age (ca. 8000 BC) to 1949 AD 27. Thangka, Qing Dynasty, 90 x 54 cm. 38. Wooden ridge beam decoration, Ming Dynasty, length: 150 cm.
11 12
Monochrome, painted, glazed, and tri-coloured pottery; celadon, white, coloured, and blue-and-white porcelain; 28. Calligraphy hand scroll, Qing Dynasty, 103 x 63 cm.
the shapes vary from bottles, jars, pots, bowls, dishes, to human figures and animal models. [illus. 1-2-3-4-5]
10 37 38

Lacquer From the Neolithic Age (ca. 8000 BC) to 1949 AD

Cups, boxes, containers and desks, with wooden or fabric surfaces painted with lacquer. [illus. 39-40]

39. Oval lacquer cup, Western Han Dynasty, 17.5 x 9.2 x 5.4 cm.
25 26 27 28 40. Painted lacquer container, Western Han Dynasty, 34 x 24 cm.
1 13 14 15

10. Bronze gui container, Western Zhou Dynasty, 24 x 26 cm. 13. Bronze bell, Spring and Autumn period, 70 x 23 cm.
Inscriptions From the Shang Dynasty (1600 BC) to 1949 AD 39 40
11. Bronze ding tripod, Western Zhou Dynasty, 46 x 32 cm. 14. Bronze gu vessel, Shang Dynasty, 15 x 10.7 cm. Ancient characters cast, engraved or impressed on such
materials as animal bone, turtle shell, pottery, stone, Numismatics Prior to 1949 AD
12. Bronze mirror, Han Dynasty, Ø 18 cm. 15. Bronze jue vessel, Shang Dynasty, 22.8 cm.
clay, bamboo, wood, metal, etc. [illus. 29-30-31] Coins and paper currency, moulds for casting coins. [illus. 41-42-43-44-45]
2 3 4 5
Gold and silver: religious or utilitarian objects, and ornaments. [illus. 16-17]
1. Pottery jar, Neolithic Age, 50 x 18.4 cm. 4. Celadon zun vase, Southern and Northern Dynasties, 79 x 19 cm.
29. Oracle bone, Shang Dynasty, 29.8 x 22.2 x 4.4 cm.
2. Five-colour porcelain covered jar, Ming Dynasty, 32 x 38 cm. 5. Blue-and-white porcelain vase, Ming Dynasty, 45 x 24 cm. 16. Gold plaque, Warring States period, 8 x 13.8 cm.
30. Rubbing book, Song Dynasty, 18 x 24 cm.
3. Painted earthenware horseman, Tang Dynasty, 32.5 x 32 cm. 17. Gilded silver pitcher, Southern Song Dynasty, 23.4 cm.
31. Wooden slip, Han Dynasty, length: 37 cm.
16 17 29 30 31
Sculpture From the Neolithic Age (ca. 8000 BC) to 1949 AD
Folk objects Prior to 1949 AD
Portraits, figures and models in stone, wood, metal, and brick. [illus. 6-7-8-9] Rubbings From the Tang Dynasty (618 AD) to 1949 AD 41 42 43 44 45
Everyday utensils and folk arts, such as New Year pictures, paper-cuts, clay figurines;
Calligraphy or images taken from steles, cliffs,
also objects such as lamps, locks, tea and food vessels, toys, chess, and cards.
inscriptions and decorations of vessels; reproduced 41. Bronze spade-shaped currency, Spring and Autumn period, 5.8 x 2.8 cm. 43. Silver ingot, Southern Song Dynasty, 11.4 x 7 x 4.7 cm.
[illus. 18-19]
on paper in black or red ink. [illus. 32-33] 42. Gilded bronze coin, Tang Dynasty, Ø 2.4 cm. 44. Mould for casting coins, Southern Dynasty, 10.5 x 10.8 x 10.6 cm.
18. Ivory belt hook (5.8 cm) and tablet (8.2 cm), Sui Dynasty. 45. Paper currency, Qing Dynasty, 18.9 x 9.4 cm.
19. Leather silhouette puppet, Qing Dynasty, 16 x 8 cm. 18 19 32. Stone stele rubbing, Qing Dynasty, 59 x 52 cm.
33. Rubbing of bronze inscriptions, Ming and Qing Dynasties, 46 x 32 cm. Textile and accessories Prior to 1949 AD
32 33
Jade and semi-precious stones From the Neolithic Age (ca. 8000 BC) to 1949 AD Garments and personal adornments of various ethnic groups. [illus. 46-47-48-49]
Ritual tools, burial objects and everyday utensils. [illus. 20-21-22-23-24] Books and documents From the Zhou Dynasty (1046 BC) to 1949 AD
Inscriptions and decorative patterns written, carved or printed on a wide variety of materials such as bamboo,
wood, silk or paper. These include bamboo and wood slips, woodblock-printed books, rare archival documents,
letters, maps and handwriting. [illus. 34-35-36] 46 47
48 49
6

20 21 22 23 24
34 35 36
7 8 9
20. White jade bi disc, Warring States period, Ø 22 cm. 22. White jade ornament, Yuan Dynasty, 4.1 x 7.1 cm. 34. Bamboo slips, Han Dynasty, 2.1 x 23 cm (one slip).
6. Head of a Buddha statue, Southern and Northern Dynasties, 86 x 56 cm. 8. Painted stone panel depicting a warrior, Five Dynasties, 113.5 x 58 cm. 21. Jade “pig dragon” (zhulong), Neolithic Age, Ø 7.2 cm. 23. White jade apsara, Song Dynasty, 2.7 x 5.8 cm. 35. Letters, Ming Dynasty, 30 x 41 cm. 22 46. Embroidered silk robe, Qing Dynasty, 130 x 95 cm. 48. Pendant, Spring and Autumn period, 5.9 x 4.8 x 1.5 cm.
7. Stone stele of a Buddha and two Bodhisattvas, Six Dynasties, 37.6 cm. 9. Stone statue of a Bodhisattva, Tang Dynasty, 39 cm. 24. Jade cong tube, Neolithic Age, 31.5 x Ø 7.8 cm. 36. Handwritten letter from a literatus, Ming Dynasty, 32.5 x 28.5 cm. 47. Dress of the Miao people, Republican period, 120 x 60 cm. 49. Jade hair ornament, Neolithic Age, 23 cm.
R E D L I S T O F C H I N E S E C U L T U R A L O B J E C T S A T R I S K R E D L I S T O F C H I N E S E C U L T U R A L O B J E C T S A T R I S K

THE RED LIST INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING CATEGORIES:

(The photographs reproduced do not depict stolen objects; they illustrate the categories of cultural objects that are vulnerable to illicit traffic.) Metals (bronze, gold, silver, lead, tin, iron, etc.) From the Xia Dynasty (ca. 2070 BC) to 1949 AD Painting and calligraphy Prior to 1949 AD Architectural elements Prior to 1949 AD
ICOM wishes to thank the following institutions for the illustrations provided: China Cultural Relics Information and Consultation Center, The Palace Museum, Bronze: food, wine and water vessels, musical instruments, weapons, chariot and horse hardware, Painting and calligraphy including text, portraits, landscapes, birds and flowers. [illus. 25-26-27-28] Architectural elements and ornamental objects made of wood,
China Numismatic Museum (Beijing), Shaanxi History Museum (Xi'an), Ethnic Costume Museum of the Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology, Jingzhou Museum everyday utensils, and other ornaments. [illus. 10-11-12-13-14-15] stone, brick, tile, and metal. [illus. 37-38]
(Hubei), and the Wudangshan Museum (Hubei). © All photographic rights are reserved by the China Cultural Relics Information and Consultation Center. 25. Painting hand scroll, Ming and Qing Dynasties, 120 x 200 cm.
26. Wall painting from a tomb, Tang Dynasty, 110 x 68 cm. 37. Glazed decorative element, Ming Dynasty, 85 x 80 cm.
Ceramics From the Neolithic Age (ca. 8000 BC) to 1949 AD 27. Thangka, Qing Dynasty, 90 x 54 cm. 38. Wooden ridge beam decoration, Ming Dynasty, length: 150 cm.
11 12
Monochrome, painted, glazed, and tri-coloured pottery; celadon, white, coloured, and blue-and-white porcelain; 28. Calligraphy hand scroll, Qing Dynasty, 103 x 63 cm.
the shapes vary from bottles, jars, pots, bowls, dishes, to human figures and animal models. [illus. 1-2-3-4-5]
10 37 38

Lacquer From the Neolithic Age (ca. 8000 BC) to 1949 AD

Cups, boxes, containers and desks, with wooden or fabric surfaces painted with lacquer. [illus. 39-40]

39. Oval lacquer cup, Western Han Dynasty, 17.5 x 9.2 x 5.4 cm.
25 26 27 28 40. Painted lacquer container, Western Han Dynasty, 34 x 24 cm.
1 13 14 15

10. Bronze gui container, Western Zhou Dynasty, 24 x 26 cm. 13. Bronze bell, Spring and Autumn period, 70 x 23 cm.
Inscriptions From the Shang Dynasty (1600 BC) to 1949 AD 39 40
11. Bronze ding tripod, Western Zhou Dynasty, 46 x 32 cm. 14. Bronze gu vessel, Shang Dynasty, 15 x 10.7 cm. Ancient characters cast, engraved or impressed on such
materials as animal bone, turtle shell, pottery, stone, Numismatics Prior to 1949 AD
12. Bronze mirror, Han Dynasty, Ø 18 cm. 15. Bronze jue vessel, Shang Dynasty, 22.8 cm.
clay, bamboo, wood, metal, etc. [illus. 29-30-31] Coins and paper currency, moulds for casting coins. [illus. 41-42-43-44-45]
2 3 4 5
Gold and silver: religious or utilitarian objects, and ornaments. [illus. 16-17]
1. Pottery jar, Neolithic Age, 50 x 18.4 cm. 4. Celadon zun vase, Southern and Northern Dynasties, 79 x 19 cm.
29. Oracle bone, Shang Dynasty, 29.8 x 22.2 x 4.4 cm.
2. Five-colour porcelain covered jar, Ming Dynasty, 32 x 38 cm. 5. Blue-and-white porcelain vase, Ming Dynasty, 45 x 24 cm. 16. Gold plaque, Warring States period, 8 x 13.8 cm.
30. Rubbing book, Song Dynasty, 18 x 24 cm.
3. Painted earthenware horseman, Tang Dynasty, 32.5 x 32 cm. 17. Gilded silver pitcher, Southern Song Dynasty, 23.4 cm.
31. Wooden slip, Han Dynasty, length: 37 cm.
16 17 29 30 31
Sculpture From the Neolithic Age (ca. 8000 BC) to 1949 AD
Folk objects Prior to 1949 AD
Portraits, figures and models in stone, wood, metal, and brick. [illus. 6-7-8-9] Rubbings From the Tang Dynasty (618 AD) to 1949 AD 41 42 43 44 45
Everyday utensils and folk arts, such as New Year pictures, paper-cuts, clay figurines;
Calligraphy or images taken from steles, cliffs,
also objects such as lamps, locks, tea and food vessels, toys, chess, and cards.
inscriptions and decorations of vessels; reproduced 41. Bronze spade-shaped currency, Spring and Autumn period, 5.8 x 2.8 cm. 43. Silver ingot, Southern Song Dynasty, 11.4 x 7 x 4.7 cm.
[illus. 18-19]
on paper in black or red ink. [illus. 32-33] 42. Gilded bronze coin, Tang Dynasty, Ø 2.4 cm. 44. Mould for casting coins, Southern Dynasty, 10.5 x 10.8 x 10.6 cm.
18. Ivory belt hook (5.8 cm) and tablet (8.2 cm), Sui Dynasty. 45. Paper currency, Qing Dynasty, 18.9 x 9.4 cm.
19. Leather silhouette puppet, Qing Dynasty, 16 x 8 cm. 18 19 32. Stone stele rubbing, Qing Dynasty, 59 x 52 cm.
33. Rubbing of bronze inscriptions, Ming and Qing Dynasties, 46 x 32 cm. Textile and accessories Prior to 1949 AD
32 33
Jade and semi-precious stones From the Neolithic Age (ca. 8000 BC) to 1949 AD Garments and personal adornments of various ethnic groups. [illus. 46-47-48-49]
Ritual tools, burial objects and everyday utensils. [illus. 20-21-22-23-24] Books and documents From the Zhou Dynasty (1046 BC) to 1949 AD
Inscriptions and decorative patterns written, carved or printed on a wide variety of materials such as bamboo,
wood, silk or paper. These include bamboo and wood slips, woodblock-printed books, rare archival documents,
letters, maps and handwriting. [illus. 34-35-36] 46 47
48 49
6

20 21 22 23 24
34 35 36
7 8 9
20. White jade bi disc, Warring States period, Ø 22 cm. 22. White jade ornament, Yuan Dynasty, 4.1 x 7.1 cm. 34. Bamboo slips, Han Dynasty, 2.1 x 23 cm (one slip).
6. Head of a Buddha statue, Southern and Northern Dynasties, 86 x 56 cm. 8. Painted stone panel depicting a warrior, Five Dynasties, 113.5 x 58 cm. 21. Jade “pig dragon” (zhulong), Neolithic Age, Ø 7.2 cm. 23. White jade apsara, Song Dynasty, 2.7 x 5.8 cm. 35. Letters, Ming Dynasty, 30 x 41 cm. 22 46. Embroidered silk robe, Qing Dynasty, 130 x 95 cm. 48. Pendant, Spring and Autumn period, 5.9 x 4.8 x 1.5 cm.
7. Stone stele of a Buddha and two Bodhisattvas, Six Dynasties, 37.6 cm. 9. Stone statue of a Bodhisattva, Tang Dynasty, 39 cm. 24. Jade cong tube, Neolithic Age, 31.5 x Ø 7.8 cm. 36. Handwritten letter from a literatus, Ming Dynasty, 32.5 x 28.5 cm. 47. Dress of the Miao people, Republican period, 120 x 60 cm. 49. Jade hair ornament, Neolithic Age, 23 cm.
 RED LIST OF

R E D LLIOSBT
JECTS AT RI
SK
CHINESE
HINESE CULTURA CULTURAL The cultural heritage of China is protected
OF C The International Council of Museums (ICOM) is the main inter- by national and international laws and agreements:
Objective national organisation of museums and museum professionals
committed to promoting and protecting the world’s natural and OBJECTS NATIONAL LEGISLATION INTERNATIONAL INSTRUMENTS
This Red List has been designed as a tool to cultural heritage, present and future, tangible and intangible.
assist museums, dealers in art and antiquities,
collectors, and customs and law enforcement
officials in the identification of objects that may
With almost 30,000 members in 137 countries, ICOM is an
international network of museums and museum professionals
AT RISK Constitution of the People’s Republic of China, Article 22
(4 December 1982)
Convention
for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict
(The Hague, 14 May 1954)
specialised in a wide range of museological and heritage-related
have been looted and illicitly exported from disciplines. Criminal Law of the People’s Republic of China, Articles 151, 264,
and 324 to 329 (1 July 1979) UNESCO Convention
China. To facilitate identification, the Red List on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit
Created in 1946, ICOM is a non-profit non-governmental organisation
illustrates a number of categories of objects (NGO) maintaining formal relations with UNESCO and having a Law of the People’s Republic of China on Protection of Cultural Relics Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property
that are at risk of being illicitly traded on the consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social (19 November 1982) (Paris, 14 November 1970)
international antiquities market. Council (ECOSOC). Regulations concerning the Implementation of the Law UNIDROIT Convention
Objects of the types illustrated hereafter are The fight against the illicit trafficking of cultural objects is among of the People’s Republic of China on Protection of Cultural Relics on Stolen or Illegally Exported Cultural Objects
protected by Chinese legislation that specifically the top priorities of ICOM. The Red List of Chinese Cultural (13 May 2003) (Rome, 24 June 1995)
prohibits their unauthorised export and sale. Objects at Risk has been designed to prevent looting, theft, and
Protection and Management Methods on Hominid and Ancient
Therefore, ICOM appeals to museums, auction the illegal export and sale of cultural objects of China, and thus
Vertebrate Fossils (3 July 2006)
houses, dealers in art and antiquities, and to help protect the country’s cultural heritage. This publication is BILATERAL AGREEMENTS
collectors not to purchase such objects without an addition to the collection of Red Lists already published by Administrative Measures for the Entry-Exit Examination
ICOM for Africa, Latin America, Iraq, Afghanistan, Peru, Cambodia, and Verification of Cultural Relics (3 July 2007) The Government of the People’s Republic of China has signed
first having checked thoroughly their origin and
Central America and Mexico, Haiti, and Colombia. agreements or memorandums of understanding
provenance documentation. Standards for the Entry-Exit Examination and Verification
on the prevention of stealing, excavation and illegal trafficking
of Cultural Relics (3 April 2007)
Because of the great diversity of Chinese objects, of cultural goods with the following countries:
styles and periods, the Red List of Chinese http://icom.museum Interim Provisions on the Limitation of the Export of Works Australia, Chile, Cyprus, Ethiopia, Greece, India, Italy, Peru,
Cultural Objects at Risk is not exhaustive, and of the Famous Late Painters after 1949, and Interim Provisions
This Red List was developed with the generous support of: Philippines, Turkey, United States of America, and Venezuela.
any antiquity originating from China should be on the Limitation of the Export of Works of the Famous Late
subjected to detailed scrutiny and precautionary Painters from 1795 to 1949 (15 November 2001)
Stone statue of Buddha, Tang Dynasty, 98 x 28 cm. measures.
© China Relic Information Consultation Centre

© 2010, ICOM, all rights reserved. - Graphic design: TAM TAM TEAM, 4/2011.
Introduction Eleven ICOM Red Lists published to date:
China’s rich cultural heritage reflects the diversity Red List of African Archaeological Objects, 2000
and complexity of the cultures that have flou-
Red List of Latin American Cultural Objects at Risk, 2003
rished there for the past ten millennia. Since the U.S. Department of State If you suspect an item may be the object of illicit trade, please contact:
mid-19th century, large numbers of invaluable Emergency Red List of Iraqi Antiquities at Risk, 2003 Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs
antiquities and other cultural objects have been Red List of Afghanistan Antiquities at Risk, 2006 State Administration of Cultural Heritage Ministry of Public Security
stolen, and many of them taken abroad. During
Red List of Peruvian Antiquities at Risk, 2007
recent decades, in spite of increased efforts made No. 10, Chaoyangmen North Street No. 14, Eastern Chang’an Street
by the Chinese government to protect China’s Red List of Cambodian Antiquities at Risk, 2009
Beijing 100020 Beijing 100016
past through the enhancement of national and Red List of Endangered Cultural Objects of Central America People’s Republic of China People’s Republic of China
international legislative and other collaborative and Mexico, 2009
efforts, the looting of Chinese sites and the illicit Tel: +86 10-59881572 Tel: +86 10-66264873
trade in antiquities for domestic as well as inter- Emergency Red List of Haitian Cultural Objects at Risk, 2010 Fax: +86 10-59881573 Fax: +86 10-66263113
national markets have developed as serious Red List of Chinese Cultural Objects at Risk, 2010 E-mail: redlist@sach.gov.cn
threats that cause irreparable harm to China’s Red List of Colombian Cultural Objects at Risk, 2010 Maison de l’UNESCO
unique heritage. It is therefore the responsibility 1, rue Miollis - 75732 Paris Cedex 15 - France
of everyone – both inside and outside of China – to Emergency Red List of Egyptian Cultural Objects at Risk, 2011 Tel: +33 (0)1 47 34 05 00 - Fax: +33 (0)1 43 06 78 62
help preserve this heritage for future generations. E-mail: secretariat@icom.museum - Website: http://icom.museum