A landmark exhibition "CONFUCIUS: His Life and Legacy in Art" is set to be shown at the China Institute Gallery from Febuary 11 to June 13.

The exhibit is the first ever in the US to explore the culture of Confucius, the ancient philosopher, statesman and teacher who has become a symbol of Chinese culture.

The exhibition focuses on the life, teachings and influence of Confucius.

Nearly 100 objects from Confucius and his ennobled descendants will be exhibited, including hanging scrolls, album leaves, bronze vessels, stone carvings, jade ceremonial implements, wood-block prints and textiles.

Works showcased will be loaned for the first time from the Shandong Provincial Museum in Ji'nan and the Confucius Museum in the philosopher's hometown of Qufu.

"Although he has come to symbolize Chinese civilization throughout the world, little is known about the man Confucius, who was a thinker, teacher and statesman more than 2,500 years ago," said Willow Hai Chang, director of the China Institute Gallery,

"This exhibition seeks to create a greater understanding of his role in Chinese culture and to examine why his extraordinary influence continues even today," she added.

(Xinhua News Agency December 2, 2009)