The Palace Museum in Beijing is hosting two major exhibitions. The first is titled “The Forbidden City and the Maritime Silk Road,” the second, “Painting and Calligraphic Works by Four Monk Artists.” The latter is in the Hall of Martial Valor, and features the largest ever collected display of 17th-century artworks by four master monk artists.

The first one displays 140 exhibits featuring cultural treasures of the ancient sea trading route. Staged at the West Wing of the Tower Gallery in the Meridian Gate, items on display include ceramics, paintings, calligraphy, books, gold and silverware, timepieces, scientific instruments, and weapons. The show was designed to reflect China’s historic interactions with the outside world. 

The second one showcases the works of Hongren, Kuncan, Bada Shanren and Shitao from the early Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). They are considered some of the best painters among Buddhist monks in ancient China. The 163 pieces displayed, make it the largest "Four Monks" themed art exhibition ever in history.