Imperial Splendour: The Qianlong Art Collection of the Huaihai Tang

Highlights

This exhibition features over 150 exquisite pieces from the Huaihai Tang collection, spanning ceramics, jade, bronzes, lacquerware, scholar's objects, books, rubbings, textiles, and paintings. These artifacts exemplify the peak of 18th-century Chinese imperial craftsmanship. Notably, nearly half of the exhibits have been donated to the Art Museum of The Chinese University of Hong Kong, making this a significant public display of these precious collections.

Program Introduction

The 18th century represented a golden age for Chinese imperial art, with the Qing court overseeing the creation of numerous masterpieces from the end of the Kangxi reign to the early Jiaqing period. The "Imperial Splendour" exhibition is centered around the "Records of the Imperial Workshops" (Zaobanchu), the most crucial archival documentation for the study of Qing court art. By integrating these records—which detail design concepts, production processes, and distribution logs—the exhibition reconstructs the historical context of imperial manufacturing. It highlights the rigorous standards and aesthetic intentions behind "imperial-made" (neiting gongzao) objects, offering a comprehensive experience for those interested in art appreciation and historical research.

Venue & Access

The exhibition is held at the Bei Shan Tang Gallery and Gallery IV of the Art Museum, The Chinese University of Hong Kong.

Ticketing

The exhibition is free of charge and open to the public. For any inquiries, please contact the museum via email at artmuseum@cuhk.edu.hk.