Modern exchanges of ancient art shape portrait of ruler

By Zhu Linyong (China Daily)
Updated: 2009-10-13 10:53

Many artworks depicting Emperor Yongzheng are on show for the first time in Taipei.

Yongzheng ruled for only 13 years. But his administration provides a significant link between the long and stable reign of Emperor Kangxi (1662-1723) and the magnificent era under Emperor Qianlong (1711-99).

The diligent ruler ordered seals carved with dragon patterns and the inscription of three Chinese characters reading: "It's difficult to be emperor."

The rectangular shoushan stone seal probably served for the emperor, who was strongly influenced by Confucian values, "as a constant reminder of the emperor's responsibility for properly ruling a country", Zhang Zhen, an expert with the Palace Museum in Beijing, explains.

The seal is now among the relics on show in Taipei.

The emperor stamped the seals not only on ancient paintings and calligraphic scrolls but also on his handwritings and imperial edicts.

Another stellar exhibit displayed in Taipei includes Yongzheng's Portrait in Court Attire. The painting depicts a seated Yongzheng ready to receive ministers, while clad in an elaborate yellow robe with blue sleeves. Another painting features a Qing maiden wearing ethnic Han attire, which experts say indicates the Manchu ruler's secret admiration for the refined and sophisticated Han culture.

A colored-ink painting of the emperor warming his feet by a pot of fire while reading offers a glimpse of his casual side - something rarely portrayed throughout the country's imperial history.

A scarcely viewed painting of Yongzheng shows him wearing a Western-styled wig and attire as he prepares to go tiger hunting. The work hints at the emperor's interest both in traditional Chinese and Western cultures, experts say.

Key exhibits owned by Taipei's Palace Museum include Yongzheng's imperial decrees, ink stones, porcelain bowls and a painting by famous Italian artist Giuseppe Castiglione, also known by his Chinese name, Lang Shining.

"The exhibits from both sides shed light on a diligent and innovative emperor, and his strong taste for art," Beijing Palace Museum director Zheng Xinmiao says.