From May 5th, the unique new exhibition, entitled ‘The Search for Immortality: Tomb Treasures of Han China,’ will boast the largest collection of ancient royal artefacts of their kind to tour internationally.

Curated by Dr. James Lin, the exhibition will focus on the quest for immortality and the struggle for imperial legitimacy in China’s ancient Han Dynasty.

More than 350 treasures made from jade, gold, silver, bronze and ceramics will be shown side by side for the first time. Highlights include lavish jade burial furnishings, which were thought to ward off demons or serve the emperor in the afterlife and more mundane, yet still intriguing, objects including a toilet and an early ginger grater.

Dr Timothy Potts, the director of the Fitzwilliam Museum, said: “It is impossible to overstate the importance of the Han Dynasty in the formation of a Chinese national culture and identity.

“The spectacular objects in this exhibition bring to Cambridge the finest treasures from the tombs of the Han royal family, the superb goldwork, jades and other exquisitely crafted offerings the kings chose to be buried with on their journey to the afterlife.”

The exhibition is part of the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad, which will bring together the world’s leading artists and the very best from the UK.

‘The Search for Immortality: Tomb Treasures of Han China’at the Fitzwillian Museum will run from 5th May until 11th November 2012 and admission is free.