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In the treasure house of Chinese civilization, arts and crafts are shining pearls. Many archaeological excavations of cultural sites have led to discoveries of beautiful bronze ware and jade dating from the Shang Dynasty (1600-1100 B.C.), life-size terra-cotta warriors, horses and chariots of the Qin Dynasty (221-206 B.C.). In this heritage also are the imperial palace treasures of the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties, as well as the mysterious and colorful religious art of the Dunhuang and Longmen grotto murals and statues. But besides these artistic attainments made in pursuit of lofty intellectual or religious ideals, China has a rich tradition of folk crafts, which are another window through which one can view and understand China's ancient civilization.