China's gift to UN placed on permanent display

The "Zun of Peace," an ancient Chinese-style wine container presented by China to the United Nations as a gift, was placed Thursday on permanent display at the UN headquarters.

"I hope that the 'Zun of Peace' will not only enrich the cultural environment of the UN, but also inspire people with values shared by China, other members and the UN -- dedication to a better world," said Liu Jieyi, China's permanent representative to the world body, at a ceremony.

The "Zun of Peace," modeled after ancient ceremonial vessels, was made by 70 master craftsmen for over 10,000 hours and went through more than 100 cloisonne-making procedures, he said.

It is crafted with the Chinese cloisonne technique, a centuries-old homegrown artistic skill listed as China's national intangible heritage in 2006.

Liu said that this piece of traditional Chinese art features symbolism and carries profound messages of good will and aspirations.

With the color of "China red," it has dragon-shaped decorations on the top symbolizing expectations for peace, and golden accessories of an elephant head and a phoenix on each side symbolizing world peace and well-being for all peoples.

Carved upon the the body are traditional Chinese auspicious patterns and other decorative designs, like painting of the ancient Silk Road, which implies carrying forward peace and development and promoting the idea of exchanges and cooperation.

Additionally, seven flying doves are carved on the surface to mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations and its tremendous contributions to world peace.

The gift was presented by Chinese President Xi Jinping on behalf of the Chinese government and people at the UN headquarters last September.

The "Zun of Peace" is the fourth gift presented by the Chinese government to the United Nations. Endi