History meets innovation in tangible collectibles

The phoenix coronet of Empress Xiaoduan from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), part of the National Museum of China's collection, has inspired a popular range of cultural products. One year after the release of the coronet magnet, sales reached 2 million units, marking its success as one of the museum's top-selling items.

When people think of the phoenix coronet of Empress Xiaoduan, they often picture hundreds of gemstones and thousands of pearls intricately set into the coronet, each contributing to its timeless beauty. As one of China's most iconic cultural treasures, the coronet is prohibited from being exhibited abroad. Yet today, it graces my fridge in the form of a magnet that comes to life with augmented reality.

When I scan the magnet with my phone, the coronet slowly rotates on the screen, its pearls flowing and gems sparkling. It feels as though I've started a conversation that transcends time. Each time I look at it, I feel as if I'm touching history, reviving its beauty, and becoming part of a living cultural experience.

Before discovering these unique objects, I was never an avid collector. Traditional magnets were simply souvenirs from my travels. But these relic-inspired magnets are different — they're not just mementos of "where I've been", but symbols of "which piece of history I've connected with".

Around 2020, magnets featuring national artifacts began to gain popularity among China's younger generation. Museums embraced this trend by transforming their collections into innovative products that visitors could take home.

As a result, historical treasures are no longer static exhibits — they've evolved into interactive, shareable, and tangible items that accompany us in our daily lives. This shift represents a significant change in how we engage with history. We no longer simply consume knowledge of the past in museums; instead, by using and sharing these modern cultural symbols, we breathe new life into tradition, making it a part of our living experience.

Now, as I look around my home, I see that I've become quite the collector. There are not only magnets, but also a backpack inspired by A Thousand Li of Rivers and Mountains from the Song Dynasty (960-1279), a paper-cut night light shaped like a zaojing (caisson ceiling), and cultural relic restoration blind boxes. Traditional heritage is gradually weaving itself into my life in a lighthearted, personal way.

When my home houses a "museum" that can be touched and experienced at any time, I realize this is a new form of cultural inheritance — one that allows ancient civilizations to sprout new branches and leaves in the present day.

Written by Li Yiying, 28, a doctoral student at the Communication University of China. She is dedicated to promoting traditional Chinese culture. Her works have won the 35th China Journalism Award and received accolades at international events such as the Beijing International Film Festival and UNESCO activities.