A Treasure Trove of History: How Many Relics are Housed in the Forbidden City?
The Forbidden City, a magnificent testament to China's imperial past, is not only an architectural marvel but also a vast repository of cultural artifacts. Today, it houses the Palace Museum, home to a staggering collection of over 1.86 million relics, offering a glimpse into the lives and artistry of China's dynastic era.
The story of the Palace Museum's collection begins in the early 20th century. In 1914, amidst the tumultuous transition from imperial rule to a republic, the "Antiquities Exhibition Hall" (古物陈列所) was established within the Outer Court of the Forbidden City. This marked an initial step towards transforming the former imperial palace into a public museum.
Years later, in 1925, the "Palace Museum" (故宫博物院) was formally founded, encompassing the vast Inner Court, where emperors once resided. This move significantly expanded the museum's scope and collection. Following the Chinese Civil War, the Antiquities Exhibition Hall was merged into the Palace Museum in 1948, unifying the collections and solidifying the museum's status as the preeminent institution for preserving China's imperial past.
The Palace Museum boasts a remarkably comprehensive collection, showcasing the richness and diversity of Chinese art and craftsmanship. The 1.86 million plus relics are meticulously categorized into 25 broad categories based on their material and form. These categories include:
- Paintings: Encompassing a wide array of styles and schools, from delicate landscapes to vibrant portraits.
- Calligraphy: Featuring masterpieces by renowned calligraphers throughout Chinese history, showcasing the beauty and expressive power of Chinese characters.
- Rubbings: Preserving inscriptions and designs from ancient steles and bronzes, providing valuable insights into historical events and artistic styles.
- Bronzes: Ranging from ritual vessels to weapons and ornaments, reflecting the advanced craftsmanship of ancient China.
- Gold and Silverware: Exquisitely crafted objects, showcasing the opulence and refined aesthetics of the imperial court.
These categories represent just a fraction of the Palace Museum's diverse holdings, which also include ceramics, jade, lacquerware, textiles, furniture, and religious artifacts. Furthermore, it's important to note that a staggering 90% of these objects are classified as "precious relics" (珍贵文物), highlighting the exceptional historical and artistic significance of the collection.
The Palace Museum stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of China's imperial past. Its vast and meticulously preserved collection provides an unparalleled window into the artistry, culture, and history of China, captivating visitors from around the globe and serving as a vital resource for research and education.
Q&A:
Q: When was the Palace Museum established?
A: The Palace Museum was officially founded in 1925 within the Inner Court of the Forbidden City.
Q: What is the significance of the Antiquities Exhibition Hall?
A: Established in 1914, the Antiquities Exhibition Hall marked the initial step in transforming the Forbidden City into a public museum and was later merged with the Palace Museum in 1948.
Q: What percentage of the Palace Museum's collection is considered "precious relics"?
A: An impressive 90% of the museum's holdings are categorized as "precious relics" due to their historical and artistic value.