Imperial echoes at China-France cultural exchange exhibition

Marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and France this year, the Palace Museum in Beijing and the Palace of Versailles in Paris have joined hands to celebrate cultural exchanges and historical ties by hosting a remarkable exhibition at the Palace Museum in Beijing.

A total of 200 exquisite artifacts are on display, including the relics witnessing interactions between Emperor Kangxi of China's Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) and King Louis XIV of France, as well as bespoke items from the Qing Dynasty's around 60-year long Qianlong-rule period which lasted almost until the end of the 18th century.

Among the treasures on display, a silver-gilt kettle made in China in 1680 has been drawing attention at the exhibition hall. Measuring 16 centimeters tall, 18.2 centimeters wide, and 8.5 centimeters deep, it belongs to the collection of the Palace of Versailles and the National Museum of the Château de Trianon. Adorned with intricate high-relief gilt figures, birds, beasts, flowers, and pagoda patterns, the kettle is believed to be the sole surviving piece of gold and silverware presented by Siamese envoys to Louis XIV. Its base bears the emblem of the French royal workshop and three crown marks.

Another highlight is a celadon-glazed perfume bottle from Jingdezhen, China. Standing at 58 centimeters tall with a body diameter of 34 centimeters, the bottle underwent a transformation in Europe where Parisian metalworkers adorned it with gilt bronze fittings in the Rococo style, evoking the imagery of a fountain. These fittings – featuring elements like shells, reeds, swans, and lobsters – symbolize the theme of "water." Acquired in 1743, the perfume bottle found a place in Louis XV's wardrobe at the Palace of Versailles, making it the only authenticated Chinese porcelain piece belonging to Louis XV.

The exhibition runs until June 30, 2024.