Yesterday, February 12, 2025, Wednesday, was the Lantern Festival, a traditional Chinese holiday also known as Yuanxiao Festival, Shangyuan Festival, Spring Lantern Festival, and Little New Year. It falls on the 15th day of the first month of the lunar calendar. According to ancient lunar calendars, the first month was Read more…
Before the invention of electricity, fire became an important source of warmth, and ancient people created various heating devices using fire as the medium. Some of these methods are still in use today. Let’s take a look! Ⅰ. Fire-Heat Floor Heating Fire-heat floor heating involves building a circulating flue system Read more…
“The cold winter deepens, as snow buries a thousand homes.” In the depths of winter, as the year draws to a close, the Qianlong Emperor’s court created a vivid depiction of the twelfth month in the Yongzheng Court’s Twelve Month Festivities (宫廷画十二月行乐图). The painting captures lively scenes from the Old Read more…
Hanfu is the traditional clothing of ancient China, and it was the dominant style of dress for many centuries. Although the term “Hanfu” is derived from the Han Dynasty, the style itself originated long before, with roots tracing back to Emperor Huangdi’s time. Hanfu remained the mainstream fashion until the Read more…
Ⅰ. Decorative Items The decorative items in the palaces of the Forbidden City during the Qing Dynasty can be regarded as a collection of exquisite art treasures from various dynasties. With their exceptional craftsmanship and beautiful designs, they were considered important artworks in the Qing court. The many items displayed Read more…
Ⅰ. Buddhist Temple Supplies The rulers of the Qing Dynasty were deeply devoted to Buddhism, and Emperor Qianlong, in particular, was a strong believer in the Yellow Sect of Tibetan Buddhism, also known as the “Lamaist” tradition. During the Qianlong period, as the central government in China gradually stabilized, strengthening Read more…
Cloisonné enamel craftsmanship generally consists of several steps: design, shaping the base, wiring, applying enamel, firing, polishing, and gilding. This technique involves using soft flat copper wires to create various patterns, which are then welded onto a metal base. The spaces within these patterns are filled with enamel glaze, and Read more…
After the Chinese New Year holiday, many people wear their Chinese new year outfit are slowly adjusting back to their work routines. But in the Qing Dynasty, the emperor had a strict daily schedule too. Let’s take a look at how a typical day for a Qing emperor was spent! Read more…
Ancient shoes played multiple roles in social and cultural life. They were not only essential for daily use but also reflected social status, cultural customs, and aesthetic values. When people think of shoes, they often consider their protective function for the feet. However, much like other animals, the skin on Read more…
The “Cloud Shoulders” is a decorative textile worn over the shoulders in ancient China. Initially, it was designed to protect the neckline and shoulders from dirt, but over time, it evolved into a decorative accessory, often made from colorful brocades. Its appearance, like clouds after the rain reflecting the sun Read more…