The Treasure Gallery - The Highest Level of Court Craftsmanship in the Qing Dynasty

With an area of approximately 220 square meters, the south gallery in the western corridor showcases artificial potted landscapes artfully made with gems, gold, silver, pearls, coral, ivory, enamel, lacquered wood, and other materials. Imbued with auspicious significance, these splendid works were indispensable ornamentations in the Qing-dynasty (1644-1911) court during festivals and ceremonies. Also presented to the court as a form of tribute, these artworks reflect unique characteristics of the lavish lifestyle enjoyed by the Qing imperial clan.

The north gallery in the western corridor of the Hall of Imperial Supremacy is approximately 340 meters square and houses works of jade and other colorful semi-precious stones. Jade carving is an integral part of China’s ancient cultural heritage. The Qing court oversaw the apex of this artform through the meticulous selection of materials and expert craftsmanship. Other fine works made of agate, crystal, lapis lazuli, turquoise, malachite, rose quartz, Shoushan stone, and other materials display the artistry of the Qing dynasty.

In the south gallery, there is an urn carved from green jade with a dragon-among-clouds designed as a testament to the exquisite artisanship of the mid to late Qianlong reign. Additionally, the north gallery has a cabinet of curiosities displaying works of jade, ceramics, enamel, glass, and other materials.

Most of treasures in gallery were made by the manufacturing office in palace, and some were tributes from local officials during the New Year's celebrations. Most of these treasures are made of precious materials such as gold, silver, jade, emerald, pearls and various precious stones, and are designed and manufactured by famous craftsmen from the whole nation, representing the highest level of craftsmanship of that time. In terms of application, it is widely involved in various fields such as court rules and rituals, religious sacrifices, daily life and leisure and enjoyment, showing the supremacy and dignity of imperial power everywhere, and the royal grace and elegance reflect the style of that era in a specific and subtle way.