The first-ever in-depth exhibition, Empresses of China’s Forbidden City, 1644–1912, which honors the 260-year Qing dynasty empresses, is on display at the Freer/Sackler Galleries from March 30 through June 23.
The exhibit features royal portraits, paintings depicting court life, including symbols of imperial power, Buddhist sutras, objects of religious devotion, and costumes, jewelry and furniture used by the empresses in the Forbidden City. Some of the items on display are being exhibited for the first time outside China.
“The empresses’ significance in shaping Qing history is told through the objects made for, about, and by them. Dispelling a common misapprehension that the women were passive figures, the exhibition breaks stereotypes of them as being merely glamorous or subservient wives. Instead, these women frequently traveled, rode horses, and performed myriad royal duties, from playing a dynamic role in the imperial family to being praised as the ‘Mother of the State’,”says the exhibit brief.
The exhibition shows how these women also extended their influence into the fields of arts, religion, politics, and diplomacy. “By reclaiming multiple dimensions of their lives, we also direct attention to the broader issue that women’s accomplishments are too often left untold,” the brief adds.
Recipes from the Chinese imperial court were also tasted by visitors on the opening day. You can listen to classical music performances and enjoy gallery talks in Mandarin and English. Kids-friendly activities are also available.
The exhibit catalogue can be purchasedhere.