The Indra and Harry Banga Gallery presents the exhibition “Might and Magnificence: Ceremonial Arms and Armour across Cultures”

The Indra and Harry Banga Gallery of City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) is delighted to announce the groundbreaking exhibition “Might and Magnificence: Ceremonial Arms and Armour across Cultures”. As part of the CityUHK’s 30th anniversary celebrations, the exhibition is co-curated by Dr Rachel Parikh, Deputy Director of the Dunhuang Foundation, and Dr Libby Chan Lai-pik , Director of the Indra and Harry Banga Gallery. It features nearly 200 ceremonial weapons and armours that span various cultures, countries, religions, and histories, revealing the true essence of ceremonial arms and armour—not merely as functional weapons, but also as profound symbols of cultural and social identity. 

The exhibition runs from 5 November, 2024, to 23 February, 2025. The new exhibits come from esteemed private and local public collections, including rare and significant loans from the renowned Mengdiexuan Collection and R&J Collection. These artefacts showcase the diverse roles of armour and weapons, from symbols of status to objects of religious worship.

This is the first time such a sizeable collection of ceremonial arms and armour that spans eras, cultures and regions has been displayed in Hong Kong. Visitors can embark on a fabulous journey through four precisely divided sections: (i) an introduction to the concept of ceremonial arms and armour, (ii) a visual glossary of the decorative techniques used on the weapons, (iii) a study of ceremonial arms and armour in seven geographical areas, from North Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, the Caucasus and Asia (iv) "Looking East", which examines the reciprocal impact of trade, conquest, and colonialism on the production of Eastern and Western ceremonial arms and armour. 

Thanks to extraordinary interdepartmental collaboration at CityUHK, which is uncommon in Hong Kong and the world, visitors will experience the remarkable integration of art, science and technology in the weaponry on display through a mesmerising immersive experience, interactive media, the metaverse, and moving images, as well as the application of algorithms, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) on selected arms, and Multispectral Imaging (MSI) on military portrait paintings. This offers a truly multidisciplinary perspective for visitors to explore.

Since its establishment in 2016, the Indra and Harry Banga Gallery at CityUHK has been recognised for exhibitions that preserve cultural heritage and bridge Western and Asian cultures. “Might and Magnificence: Ceremonial Arms and Armour across Cultures” continues this proud tradition and carries on the Gallery’s mission of providing artistic, innovative, technology-rich exhibitions that engage the community. 

Mr Lester Garson Huang, Chairman of the Council of CityUHK, said, “This exhibition is a prime example of how art, science, and technology converge through the outstanding collaboration we have here at CityUHK. It perfectly aligns with the mission of the Indra and Harry Banga Gallery, enabling us to explore these ceremonial pieces in innovative ways and understand their historical significance in different dimensions.”

Dr Chan said, “Ceremonial arms and armour, crafted with exceptional skill, like precious jewellery, connect different societies through shared traditions of craftsmanship, spirituality and diplomacy. As enduring symbols of identity, aesthetics and human creativity, they remain prevalent today in films, manga and online games. This exhibition highlights the impressive craftsmanship, expertise and innovative designs of ceremonial arms and armour.

Through interdisciplinary research, it allows the exhibition to narrate in a non-linear way and enables us to present new perspectives and knowledge by integrating art, science and technology. Visitors can appreciate these amazing artefacts through multiple lenses and enjoy a diverse and interactive visual feast.”

“Might and Magnificence: Ceremonial Arms and Armour across Cultures”