The Opulence of the Emperor!

'The Emperor's Private Paradise:  Treasures from the Forbidden City'

currently showing at The Metropolitan Museum in NYC showcases an abundance of elaborate possessions of possibly the most extravagant Emperor in Chinese history.

The Qianlong Emperor who reigned from 1736-1795 during the Qing Dynasty commissioned an opulently, over the top retirement compound to be built for him in 1771.

No expense was spared to create an ostentatious, wall to wall, two acre masterpiece of riches, which housed the most expensive art and furnishings that could be procured.

 Comprising works which contained rare woods, gilt bronze, porcelain, lacquer and semi-precious stones.

Alas, he never resided there, and the 'Emperor's Paradise' remained untouched

 and unlived in since Imperial times.

Ancestral portrait of the Qianlong Emperor (1736-1795)

Ornamental Linghi Rock of limestone-
 great for the Sculpture Garden!

Throne and Footstool made from purple sandalwood and cedar.
Depicting the deer in the' Buddhist Paradise'

From the Bower of Purist Jade in wood, lacquer and gilding

Panel from the Studio of Exhaustion from Diligent Service (love the name!)
sandalwood, jade, lapis lazuli, malachite, purple sandalwood and glass

And now for my favourites!

Now these are really pushing the envelope!




These amazing rootwood pieces were seen in paintings as early as the 11th Century depicting Buddhist figures seated on furniture like this. These early images were meant to signify the religious figures' indifference to comfort and worldly possessions. They were at one with natural organic forms, whilst being very uncomfortable!

During the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) the culturally elite started to commission furniture like this to be carved to resemble naturally contorted roots.




I could just imagine a new design project featuring a room full of this!
These are sculptural masterpieces!



All images via Metropolitan Museum of Art and Culture Grrl