 Lindau, Germany, October, 7:00 p.m.
As dusk approached, Lake Constance, which had been a vast expanse of sparkling blue water during the day, gradually turned from azure to deep gray as the sunlight waned. Along the shores stood the rolling Alps, their snow-capped peaks glowing orange in the reflection of the setting sun, appearing like flickering flames against a backdrop of pale blue sky.
Situated in the middle of Lake Constance, Lindau is a small island and an ancient city with a history spanning over a millennium. Surrounded by medieval city walls, the island connects to the mainland through a single stone bridge and a railway line. Against the backdrop of towering redwoods and horse chestnut trees, rows of orange-red brick rooftops host Gothic church spires and pointed arch windows. The ancient cobblestone streets gleamed with the light of countless homes, bustling with lively crowds and cheerful laughter. Encircled by the serene lake, the city seemed especially vibrant in the soft glow of twilight. Like a golden jewel set in emerald, this small island shone brilliantly.
In the harbor of this ancient city stood a massive stone pillar, atop which a majestic stone lion gazed silently over the vast expanse of lake water, the harbor filled with sailboats and yachts, and the distant, undulating Alpine peaks. Not far from the harbor was the city's sole modern building. Its golden copper mesh roof and façade harmonized with the orange-red rooftops of the old city. The glass curtain wall of its entrance hall sparkled brilliantly, and the golden glow was mesmerizing. At the entrance stood several prominent characters: Lindau Cultural Center, Bavaria, Germany.
Tonight, without a doubt, this building was the liveliest place in the city. Luxury cars arrived one after another, prominent guests gathered, a long red carpet stretched out, and media and reporters bustled about. Here, a grand auction was about to take place. After months of media buzz and promotion, this highly anticipated event was hailed as the most significant auction of the year, drawing the attention of Europe and the world. And so, tonight, the ancient city on the shores of Lake Constance became the focus of all eyes.
A black business car slowly crossed the stone bridge, making its way from the mainland to the bustling island.
"Dr. Song, after nearly two hours of driving, we've finally arrived. I still don't understand why such an important auction is being held here. " the man in the driver's seat said, glancing out the window. Despite the weariness in his tone, there was an unmistakable trace of excitement.
"This city is no ordinary place," replied the man reclining in the rear, speaking in a calm tone without opening his eyes. "Lindau city is at the intersection of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland and has been prosperous since ancient times. Its history dates back to the Roman era. During the Holy Roman Empire, Lindau became a free city-state, flourishing with wealth. In recent years, after the 'Second Great Pollution' incident, Lake Constance has turned into a coveted vacation destination for Europeans. This small island at the center of the lake has become one of Europe's hottest cities, attracting politicians, celebrities, and wealthy merchants. Vacationing here has become a status symbol. As for this building, it has quite the reputation too. Every summer, Nobel laureates from all over the world gather here for meetings. The organizers deliberately chose this prestigious 'stage' for the auction, further emphasizing how significant today's target is."
"That explains it. You really are a fountain of knowledge. No wonder everyone calls you a 'walking encyclopedia.'"
"No need to flatter me, Xiao Li. Don't forget why we're here today. We must succeed—failure is not an option, right?"
"Of course! " With that, Xiao Li brought the car to a smooth stop in front of the entrance to the Lindau Cultural Center.
The sliding door of the black business car slowly opened, and a man stepped out from the back seat. He was dressed in a sharp suit, about 1.8 meters tall, with a lean build and short, neatly cropped hair that gave him a composed and efficient look. Thin titanium alloy frames held two thick lenses, giving his face an intellectual air. His name was Song Jie, a representative of China's cultural department attending the auction. Due to his deep expertise in art and architectural history, he had been entrusted with significant responsibilities for years, serving as the head of the "Wanbi Project" in Europe.
The "Wanbi Project," also known as the "Return the Jade Intact to Zhao/ Wanbi Guizhao" initiative, was China's ambitious program to locate and recover Chinese cultural relics lost over the past century. Through various means, and at any cost, these artifacts were to be brought back to their homeland. The project had been given a resonant and meaningful name: the "Wanbi Plan."
Song Jie and his assistant, Xiao Li, had a singular objective on this trip—to secure the most important item in this auction: the Buddha head from the Xiangtangshan Caves of the Northern Qi Dynasty. When this precious artifact, previously known only through historical records and legends, appeared on the auction list, its re-emergence caused a sensation in the global cultural and collector communities. Song Jie felt a surge of excitement as well. He and Xiao Li had meticulously prepared for this moment, traveling from Munich to Lindau today for the sole purpose of bidding on this crucial relic and bringing it back to China.
With resolute steps and unwavering determination, Song Jie entered the auction venue, Xiao Li following closely behind. The hall was already packed with attendees, a lively and bustling scene filled with distinguished guests. The moment they stepped into the grand space, both were struck by the architecture's stunning beauty.
Layer upon layer of intricate wooden structures formed a massive and complex framework, creating the impression of stepping into a labyrinth. As it turned out, this seemingly modern, futuristic building had incorporated the century-old wooden structure of the original site. The roof and walls of the old building had been removed, leaving the wooden framework intact. Around it, glass and metal had been used to construct a new, modern exterior, creating what looked like a "house within a house," reminiscent of a Matryoshka doll.
"This is breathtaking. From the outside, who would've imagined the venue would house such a traditional wooden structure?" Xiao Li exclaimed, gazing up with his mouth agape.
Song Jie, however, remained composed. "The design concept of this building is probably about honoring and preserving heritage, which aligns perfectly with what we've been striving for." He gestured toward the seating area. "Let's take our seats."
The auction was organized by "Piano& Rogers" Europe's oldest and most prestigious auction house. Unlike the traditional hall-like venues used for past auctions, this event took place in a uniquely designed 180° semi-circular space. At the center of the semi-circle was the auction platform, with a massive screen as its backdrop. Surrounding the semi-circle were the seats for the bidders, almost all of which were occupied as Song Jie entered the venue. This was a testament to the success of the promotional campaign launched three months earlier by "Piano& Rogers" Of course, the centerpiece of everyone's attention was the priceless Northern Qi Buddha head and the intrigue surrounding its mysterious seller.
Guided by the staff, Song Jie and his assistant quickly found their seats—prime spots near the center of the front row, right beside the auction platform. Song Jie liked this position; it allowed him to observe the auctioneer's every expression and subtle movement, enabling him to strategize while keeping his own face hidden from his competitors. As soon as they settled in, they could feel the intense stares from around the room. It was clear that someone was watching them, accompanied by hushed whispers.
Song Jie paid no mind to the attention. In recent years, under China's strong push for the repatriation of overseas cultural relics, the "Wanbi Project" had been making waves in many countries. At this point, it wasn't difficult to deduce what the presence of Asians at such an event signified. Song Jie had long grown accustomed to being whispered about, or even targeted with veiled hostility.
Xiao Li, glancing nervously around, whispered, "What should we do?"
"Ignore them. Follow my lead," Song Jie replied softly, tilting his head slightly. "Our focus tonight is singular."
When it came to the auction's centerpiece—the precious Northern Qi Buddha head—Song Jie was clearly determined to win. This wasn't just because of his meticulous preparations, but also due to his track record. Over the years, as the head of China's artifact repatriation program in Europe, he had achieved remarkable success and was brimming with confidence.
His successes were primarily attributable to the Chinese government, which had negotiated bilateral agreements with various countries. These agreements allowed for the repatriation of Chinese artifacts housed in public European museums. However, these frameworks applied only to official institutions. Private museums and individual collectors were beyond their reach, requiring alternative approaches such as auctions, dealings with antique dealers, or direct negotiations.
Compared to intergovernmental cooperation, working with private parties was far more challenging. Fortunately, thanks to Song Jie and his colleagues' relentless efforts—and the government's willingness to spare no expense—the past three years had seen extraordinary results. Over 100 valuable artifacts, lost overseas for decades, had been acquired from private collectors and auction houses across Europe. Their achievements had been impressive and outstanding.
Every time an artifact was packed and loaded onto a flight bound for China, Song Jie felt that no matter how much hardship, frustration, or injustice he had endured, it was all worth it as long as these treasures could return to their homeland.
He had attended countless auctions by now, but today's event was distinctly special. The "target" this time was extraordinarily precious—a Buddha head from the Xiangtangshan Caves of the Northern Qi Dynasty, with a history spanning over a thousand years. At this moment, it sat quietly in a glass display case beside the auction platform, basking in the glow of the spotlights and drawing the admiring gazes of everyone in the room.
"Look at how beautiful it is. The stone carving craftsmanship of the Northern Qi Dynasty undoubtedly reached a pinnacle in the history of Chinese grotto art," Song Jie remarked with admiration as he gazed at the artifact. "The artisans of that time were not only highly skilled but also capable of imbuing the faces and details of Buddha statues with vivid expressiveness. What's even more remarkable is that, unlike the other Buddha statues which convey detachment from the mortal world and solemn dignity, this Northern Qi Buddha head radiates compassion and wisdom. Especially striking is the subtle smile at the corner of its lips, which adds a warm and understated aesthetic. This unique quality has earned it a prominent place in Chinese art history. Scholars and poets from various dynasties have been captivated by this enigmatic and charming smile, even comparing it to the 'Mona Lisa's Smile.' It is undoubtedly a symbol and representation of the brilliance of Northern Qi Buddhist art."
As he spoke, seemingly directing his comments at his assistant Xiao Li, Song Jie's gaze never wavered from the Buddha head behind the anti-reflective glass.
"If we can take this home tonight, it would truly be a monumental achievement!"