Geographically located along many historical trade routes, Singapore’s origins as a state and country are deeply anchored in its previous status as a fishing town and port. Maritime history becomes a key part of situating Singapore within the 9th century, through tracing its interactions with the world at large.

The Tang Shipwreck permanent exhibition, housed in the Khoo Teck Puat Gallery of the Asian Civilisations Museum’s new Riverfront Wing, comprises an impressive collection of ceramics, gold and silver objects chronicling trade between China, the Islamic world and Southeast Asia.

In deference to the beauty and importance of these artefacts, the exhibition layout is kept porous, flexible and quiet. A circulation path is not dictated, encouraging visitors to wander through at their own pace. Exhibit plinths are raised off the floor and are coloured in a darker, neutral palette, taking a back seat to the objects on display. Glass cases house the collection, inviting examination from a multitude of angles. The physical infrastructure is non-intrusive, creating a sense of transparency that permeates the exhibit.