The long-awaited "Encounter the Colorful Ming Dynasty: 1573 - Wanli Cultural Relics Theme Exhibition" has finally arrived. As the emperor with the longest reign in the Ming Dynasty, Emperor Wanli's life has always intrigued people. This exhibition focuses on the forty-eight years of Emperor Wanli's reign and brings together 137 exhibits from multiple cultural and historical institutions, with a particular emphasis on relics unearthed from the Ming Dingling of the Ming Tombs. With an exhibition hall spanning 800 square meters and a 240-meter exhibition line, it presents a splendid and diverse picture of the Wanli period.

The first section primarily showcases the court rituals of the Ming Dynasty, accompanied by introductions to Emperor Wanli and the Ming Dingling. Numerous royal artifacts are on display here. Magnificent and exquisite exhibits are presented in synchronization, including the national treasure-level Gold-winged Crown, the top-notch craftsmanship of the Twelve Dragons and Nine Phoenixes Coronet, as well as precious items like Dalu Belt and Golden Goblet.

In the later period of the Wanli, while the political situation gradually declined, culture and art continued to flourish. From everyday practical items to artistic masterpieces, from noble utensils to decorative hair ornaments, the second section showcases more aspects of daily life. A large number of household items are exhibited in this section, including royal utensils made in the imperial court and handicrafts from the common people. Exquisite hairpins with auspicious symbolic patterns carved on them provide a glimpse into the colorful and individualistic late Ming period.

During the Wanli era, the reopening of maritime trade and the revitalization of the Maritime Silk Road facilitated global exchanges. In a separate exhibition hall, the third section showcases diplomatic trade and cultural exchanges during the Ming Dynasty, where Eastern and Western civilizations intersect and influence each other.

The exhibition also features a reconstruction of scenes from the Ming Dynasty, where visitors can dress in Hanfu (traditional Chinese clothing) and take photos, immersing themselves in an immersive "journey" through the Ming Dynasty.

Translator: ZHAO Huinan

Reviewer: TANG Yingqi