Hang Chunxiao, who curates the show, says it celebrates the technical sophistication and rich meaning of what the Chinese have displayed on their walls and gates over the centuries, especially the pictures featuring menshen or doorway-gods, supernatural guardians on the thresholds of homes.

He says New Year pictures express a desire for bliss and prosperity in the New Year, and feature characters, normally drawn from mythology, folk tales and novels. These reveal the rich presentation and depth of Chinese culture which make those decorations independent pieces of art to people today.

The exhibition that is likely to become the most photographed will be one showing replicated mural paintings from 23 caves and Buddhist temple relics, in a stretch of some 1,600 kilometers along the Ancient Silk Road and dated between the fourth and 14th centuries.

Han says the two museums are also planning lectures by artisans, concerts and local opera performances.

Contact the writer at linqi@chinadaily.com.cn