Curio in National Palace Museum, Qianlong reign (1736-1795), Qing dynasty

Welcome to the National Palace Museum's collection of curios from the Qianlong reign of the Qing dynasty! Here, you can explore a wide variety of amazing artifacts, such as Cloisonne and painted enamel butter tea jars, Round Bamboo-Veneered Curio Boxes with Lotus Blossom Decor, Inkstones for Imperial Usage, Carved Polychrome Lacquer Boxes in the Shape of Conjoined Spheres and Square Sandalwood Curio Cases. These curios are all unique pieces that give us a glimpse into the culture of this time period. Come take a look at these incredible artifacts today!

1. Cloisonne and painted enamel butter tea jar

The most outstanding examples of cloisonné enamelware during the Qing dynasty were the painted enamelware.

2. Round Bamboo-Veneered Curio Box with Lotus Blossom Decor (Containing 27 Curios)

This curio box has been joined by bamboo thread and has a carved bamboo veneer with lotuses applied to the outer surface. The design allows for the four fan-shaped quadrants of the body to be either spread out in a line or turned around to form a square display box.

3. Inkstones for Imperial Usage

This inkstone has a base with six cloud-head feet, and in the middle underneath is carved a round and square seal. The upper one in relief is in clerical script in two lines and reads "Pure Curio of the Qianlong [Emperor]", while the lower one is engraved in two lines of

4. Carved Polychrome Lacquer Box in the Shape of Conjoined Spheres

This treasure chest has two layers, a dark yellow bottom and a bright red top. The panels on the surface are carved with images of tribute.

5. Square Sandalwood Curio Case (Containing 32 Curios)

This curio box looks like a plain container when it is closed. It does not take up much space in storage, which is an advantage. The outside may appear simple, but it is not monotonous.