The School of International Studies at the University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC) successfully hosted a two-day workshop, "Science and the Silk Roads", on 16 and 17 December, 2024. Organised in collaboration with the Global Institute for Silk Roads Studies (GISRS) and the Sino-European Humanities and Social Sciences Exchange and Cooperation Key Laboratory, this event brought together leading experts from around the world.
The workshop explored the intersection of science and cultural studies, addressing key archaeological and cultural questions related to the historic Silk Roads. Distinguished speakers shared their insights through a series of engaging sessions, offering in-depth analyses of topics that bridge historical research with scientific methodologies.
Experts from renowned institutions such as Peking University, Fudan University, Zhejiang University, Cambridge University, and the Palace Museum contributed their knowledge to the event. Presentations covered a wide range of subjects, from ancient horse husbandry and agricultural innovations to the origins of materials like lacquer and jade. Further discussions delved into organic pigments used in Silk Road art and the trade of glass beads along the Maritime Silk Roads, highlighting the global nature of these historical exchanges.
Day 1: Organic Materials, Minerals, Pigments, and Glass
The first day focused on the role of organic materials, minerals, pigments, and glass in the cultural and economic networks of the Silk Roads. Key topics included:
- The Prehistoric Spread of Carnelian
- The Role of Lacquer in Ancient Trade Networks
- Agricultural Practices and Their Impact on Silk Road Economies
Presenters examined how the movement of materials such as carnelian and lacquer influenced trade and cultural exchange, while agricultural innovations shaped the prosperity of regions connected by the Silk Roads.
Day 2: Metals, Ceramics, and Conservation
The second day of the workshop shifted to metals, ceramics, and conservation techniques, with engaging talks that highlighted the cultural significance of various artifacts and the role of scientific methods in preserving them. Notable presentations explored:
- The Technological Advancements in Ceramic Production
- The Cultural Significance of Islamic Glass Trade
- Innovations in Ceramic Conservation and Restoration
Presenters emphasized the importance of scientific techniques such as chemical analysis and material studies, showcasing how these methods provide fresh insights into the complex cultural exchanges that occurred along the Silk Roads.
This dynamic and interdisciplinary event showcased the value of global collaboration among scholars, highlighting how scientific approaches can enrich our understanding of the complex historical networks that constituted the Silk Roads.
Participants were also encouraged to explore the recently published book Reimagining the Silk Roads: Interactions and Perceptions Across Eurasia, edited by Julian Henderson, Stephen Morgan, and Matteo Salonia, which aligns closely with the workshop's themes. The book is available as open access: https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/oa-edit/10.4324/9781003348702/reimagining-silk-roads-julian-henderson-matteo-salonia-stephen-morgan.