Imperial artistry

Another highlighted exhibit that comes from Qianlong is his reproduction of the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127) painting, Elegant Gathering in the Western Garden. The original painting portrays a group of celebrated literati of the time, including Su Shi, Mi Fu, Huang Tingjian and Li Gonglin.

Other signatures on the painting suggest the work was jointly produced by the emperor and several of his courtiers.

Apparently, Qianlong wanted a similarly elegant gathering in the Forbidden City as well.

"The high officials surrounding Qianlong were a group of literati with fine cultural tastes," the curator says. "They shared the emperor's emotions."

In 1743, Qianlong invited the capital's literati to attend the first tea party at the Palace of Double Glory (Chonghua Gong) in the Forbidden City, which became a tradition during his reign.

"The emperor set a theme for each party, and wrote impromptu poems, prompting the guests to follow suit," Zhao says. "This helped to form a closer bond between the ruler and court officials."

Shi Yi Shi Er Tu (The One and Two), another painting on display, is an apparent reflection of the emperor's ideals. The painting depicts Qianlong, dressed in the style of a Han Chinese literati despite being a Manchu, sitting in his study. A portrait of him hangs on the screen behind him.

The scene presents an impromptu question: Which one is Qianlong's true identity? The one on the throne with ultimate power in real life, or the one in the painting who revels in joyful leisure?

Contact the writer at wangkaihao@chinadaily.com.cn