Hong Kong museums host exhibitions on Qing Dynasty imperial art

The Hong Kong Palace Museum is hosting the ‘Qing Dynasty Manufacturing and Contemporary Design’ exhibition, featuring 157 treasures from the Palace Museum, including 14 first-class national relics. The exhibition provides a comprehensive introduction to the ‘Zaobanchu’ (Imperial Workshops), the institution responsible for the production and maintenance of imperial items during the Qing Dynasty.

Visitors can explore the distinct aesthetic preferences of the Kangxi, Yongzheng, and Qianlong emperors. Highlights include items that demonstrate the integration of traditional Chinese craftsmanship with Western techniques introduced via missionaries and trade, such as cloisonné and enamel works. The exhibition also connects historical imperial design concepts to contemporary trends like retro styles and optical illusions.

Additionally, the Chinese University of Hong Kong Museum is presenting the ‘Treasures of Huaihai Hall: Qianlong Relics Donated by Huaihai Hall’ exhibition. This showcase includes over 150 items, such as calligraphy, paintings, and various imperial crafts, exploring themes of imperial authority, tribute, and textile production during the Qianlong period.