“Are you the reporter from the ‘Morning Star’?” Ruan Xiuwen extended his hand politely. I took the opportunity to size him up. He was tall and slender, with very fair skin, wearing round glasses, and his gaze was sharp, giving off an air of competence. His appearance was quite different from the archaeologists I had met before; some were always serious, others looked weathered, almost like construction workers in comparison. I wasn’t belittling Zhang Qiang and others, but Ruan Xiuwen was indeed unique. He was neither the typical scholarly type nor the rugged, fieldwork type with sun-tanned skin. I introduced myself and shook his hand.
“You journalists are truly resourceful. I didn’t expect to be interviewed right after arriving in Shanghai,” Ruan Xiuwen said with a smile, inviting me to sit. “My visit here was known to very few.”
“Have other media reporters interviewed you?”
“No, you’re the only one.”
I felt a quiet thrill; finally, I could have an exclusive interview. Now, it was time to see what insights this expert had to offer. Ruan Xiuwen’s attire was casual yet tasteful, and he spoke freely. Before I could ask any questions, he started, “Actually, I’m quite pleased that Shanghai has allowed me to participate this time.”
“Are you dispatched by the Archaeological Association?” I asked, pulling out my notepad for notes.
“Ah… yes. But it was my initiative to come. My main reason for coming is my curiosity about this site. As you know, finding such a site in the urban area of Shanghai is big news in the Chinese archaeological community in recent years. Plus, my position allows me some freedom to move around.”
“May I ask what your role is in the Archaeological Association?”
“I’m a freelance archaeologist. I basically fund my own archaeological activities, just keeping an affiliation with the Chinese Archaeological Society.”
“Oh!” I sincerely exclaimed in admiration.
Three: The Archaeologist from Beijing (2)
I heard that the main purpose of your visit this time is to re-examine the function and construction date of the Zhidan Garden ruins, right? What are the current points of contention?
“Indeed, as you’ve said. As for the disagreements, they mainly revolve around several aspects, like the dating. Before I came here, the official statement was that it was from the Yuan Dynasty, wasn’t it?”
“Yes.”
