Publications
Analysis of an Ancient Architectural Painting from the Jiangxue Palace in the Imperial Museum, Beijing, China
A groundbreaking analysis of ancient architectural paintings from the Jiangxue Palace, part of Beijing's UNESCO-listed Imperial Museum, reveals intricate multi-layered structures using pigments like emerald green and lead white. The study employed advanced techniques such as ultra-depth three-dimensional microscopy and Raman spectroscopy to uncover the composition of pigments, binders (tung oil), and fillers (flour) in the plaster base, along with the underlying red minium foundation. These findings significantly advance our understanding of Ming and Qing dynasty painting techniques, providing critical insights for the preservation and restoration of this world cultural heritage site.
The marriage of Chinese Imperial Medicine and China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences: privilege and benefits for the people
A strategic collaboration between the Palace Museum and China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences aims to scientifically study traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) cultural relics from the Qing dynasty, leveraging the museum's vast collection. This partnership focuses on preserving and analyzing historical medical texts and formulas, such as the Taiping Huimin Hejiju Fang, which was finalized in the 13th century and remains influential today. The research approach combines archival studies with modern scientific methods to uncover insights into imperial medical practices, including those of renowned figures like Li Shizhen, who contributed significantly to TCM literature, such as the Bencao Gangmu. This initiative not only benefits academic research but also provides tangible benefits for public health by revisiting and validating ancient medicinal practices.
Back to the Roots: The Imperial City of Shenyang as a Symbol of the Manchu Ethnic Identity of the Qing Dynasty
The Shenyang Imperial City, inscribed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Imperial Palaces of the Ming and Qing Dynasties' alongside Beijing's Forbidden City, stands out for its unique reflection of Manchu culture and identity. Unlike the Forbidden City, which symbolizes centralized power under the Ming and Qing dynasties, Shenyang Palace embodies the origins and evolution of the Manchu ethnic identity, particularly through its pre-1644 architecture and later additions during Qianlong's reign. This study reveals how the palace serves as a tangible symbol of both the Manchus' devotion to their ancestors and their gradual sinicization, merging distinct cultural and institutional systems. The research draws on primary sources such as Qing shilu (清實錄) and Manwen laodang (滿文老檔), providing unprecedented insights into Qing history before Beijing's conquest. By analyzing these architectural and historical layers, the study underscores Shenyang Palace's dual significance: as a testament to Manchu heritage and a bridge between Manchu and Chinese cultures.
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