Analysis of the Palace Museum’s Copper-Body Cloisonné Enamel Inlaid Glass Gourd-Shaped Hanging Lantern
Main Article Content
Abstract
The Qing dynasty court lanterns in the Palace Museum’s collection, as exemplary examples of Qing dynasty court lighting, epitomize the ritual function and artistic value of traditional Chinese lanterns. This article systematically examines the copper-body cloisonné enamel gourd-shaped hanging lanterns through visual analysis, textual, and craftsmanship research. The distinctive features of Qing dynasty court lanterns are revealed from the perspectives of function, color, pattern, and structure, revealing their significance in material selection, craftsmanship innovation, cultural symbolism, and ritual practice. Lanterns are not only a physical vehicle for imperial life but also reflect the complex integration of imperial symbols, folk beliefs, and cross-cultural technology. This article uses the copper-body cloisonné enamel inlaid glass gourd-shaped hanging lantern as a case study to further demonstrate its exemplary craftsmanship and cultural symbolism. Beyond its historical value, this study discusses the cultural significance of the Qing-dynasty lantern and its implications for future museum practices and heritage interpretation. The findings contribute to broader discussions on heritage studies, design innovation, and cross-cultural exchange.
Highlights
- 1. A systematic study and analysis of the copper-based cloisonné enamel and glazed gourd lanterns in the Palace Museum’s collection demonstrates how a cross-cultural technique (European enamel craft combined with Chinese auspicious symbols) has been localized and institutionalized within Qing court art.
- 2. This study reveals the lantern’s dual nature: as both an imperial political symbol reinforcing legitimacy and a cultural carrier of folk auspicious beliefs.
- 3. This study proposes a new perspective on the preservation of intangible cultural heritage and museum exhibitions, suggesting the potential restoration of the lantern’s lighting effects through digital reconstruction in future research.
Article Details
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Copyright: CC BY-NC-ND 4.0
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