In the urban society of Macao, people are obsessed with the enjoyment of material things, and few of them ever give thought to the existence of prehistoric sites with over 6,000 years history in this small city. As everyone knows, Macao boasts a history of cultural exchanges between China and Portugal for over 400 years, however, what was Macao like 400 years ago? Why did people move to Macao at that time? To answer these questions and try to introduce that part of the history of opening up the untouched soil of Macao is the major purpose of this exhibition.

In 1972, the Hong Kong Archaeological Society was invited to carry out a survey in Macao. In five locations, Ka Ho at Coloane, Cheoc Van, Coloane Village, South Hac Sa and North Hac Sa, prehistoric relics of the Neolithic era were found, which disclosed the fact that Macao was rich in treasured prehistoric cultural assets.

The earthenware on display this time, amongst which there are good quantities of painted pottery pieces with specific local cultural characteristics in both design style and craftsmanship, was unearthed from Hac Sa Site. This pottery is of important academic value for the study and research of the prehistoric cultural advancements and the formation of the typical coastal culture in ancient south China, however in the past Macao people were seldom given the opportunities to learn about such matters.

In this regard, Macao Museum of Art has organised the "Prehistoric Archaeology and Culture of Macao - Summer School" during July to August in 2003. Under the guidance of archaeological professionals, young students from local schools were organised to sort out the prehistoric cultural relics and antiques found in Macao. Their achievements are demonstrated in this exhibition.

The archaeological undertaking of Macao has been carried out sporadically since 1970's, and most of such activities were assisted by archaeologists from areas neighbouring Macao. Macao doesn't have an archaeological team of its own and has never carried out any independent archaeological research, however, with the archaeology-related activities being carried out through the participation of local students, the archaeological undertaking of Macao is in the rudimentary stage. With the expectation that such a green sprout will grow quickly in the future, we hope that the holding of this exhibition will play a significant role in the promotion and understanding of the prehistoric history of Macao as well as that of the Chinese culture.

Director of the Macao Museum of Art

Ung Vai Meng