Centre for Experimental Archaeology and Traditional Craft Studies
China
Yongxing Sub-district
Tianfu New Area
Chengdu City
Sichuan Province
Member since: 2025
Focus area: Neolithic, Bronze Age, Medieval
The Centre for Experimental Archaeology and Traditional Craft Studies is situated in Tianfu New Area, Chengdu City, Sichuan Province, China. Co-founded in 2025 by Dr. Tang Bangcheng, a leading experimental archaeologist, and Mr. Zhou Decai, a distinguished Chengdu-based ceramic artist, the Centre operates under the directorship of Dr. Tang Bangcheng.
Spanning approximately 1,600 square meters as an archaeological open-air museum, the Centre anchors its mission in experimental archaeological research, integrating Chinese archaeological findings, historical documents, ethnological surveys, and interdisciplinary resources. It translates research outcomes into educational programs, leisure experiences, and interactive exhibits. A highlight is the 60-meter stepped ceramic kiln built in 1868 (AD), a pivotal heritage site for decoding kiln construction and pottery production technologies in Southwest China. Adjacent to this ancient kiln, a replica reconstructed via experimental archaeology methods facilitates vintage pottery production and hands-on educational workshops.
The Centre has also reconstructed iconic artifacts through experimental approaches, including Neolithic textile tools, Bronze Age smelting furnaces, and medieval wine-making apparatuses. These reconstructions underpin research and teaching on ancient Chinese craftsmanship—ranging from bronze and jade wares to textiles, pottery, porcelain, and winemaking. Additionally, it hosts master artisans in ceramic art, textile weaving, lacquerware, wooden furnishings, and ironwork, fostering collaborative development of cultural creative products and contributing to heritage conservation and restoration.
With onsite amenities including a restaurant, café, conference rooms, restrooms, and a guesthouse—supplemented by partnerships with neighboring luxury hotels—the Centre ensures comprehensive hospitality for visiting scholars and tourists alike.
Institutional Representatives
Bangcheng Tang
Director
Bangcheng Tang graduated from Renmin University of China as an undergraduate, obtaining a Bachelor of Management degree and a Bachelor of Science degree. He graduated from the Department of Archaeology at the University of Sheffield in the UK with a Master of Arts degree. Currently, he is engaged in experimental archaeological research at Sichuan University in China. His research direction for the doctorate is related to the Sanxingdui Site in Sichuan, China.