Museum Updates
Jade ornament adds playfulness to Emperor Qianlong's study
Updated: Jun 1, 2026
China Bound
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In the Sanxitang (Hall of Three Rarities), Emperor Qianlong's study in the Palace Museum, this archaistic jade gong (wine vessel) with dragon head motifs is among the treasured jade displays. Look closely: two tiny dragons cling to the rim – one gazing ahead, the other looking back. Perhaps even Emperor Qianlong (r. 1736-1795) couldn't help but smile at these charming little companions during a break from his books.
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