Visual and Material Culture of the Qing Court,1644-1911

Ruled by the Manchus, the Qing empire was a multiethnic, multicultural regime with an expansive territory and global connections. The visual and material culture of the Qing court developed unprecedented innovations, drawing from a variety of resources—Han Chinese and Manchu heritages, Central Asian and Tibetan traditions, and European elements—in serving imperial agendas. Studies on Qing court arts in the recent decade have become one of the most vibrant fields in Chinese art history. Drawing from the latest scholarship, this seminar will survey multiple aspects of Qing imperial arts, ranging from painting, architecture, interior display, festival and theatrical spectacles, decorative arts, to religious art. We will tackle issues such as production systems, technical and stylistic innovations, the relationship between arts and politics, and the roles of various key players. A central focus will be on the dynamic impacts of Sino-European exchanges on Qing court arts. 3 credits. Satisfies the geocultural requirement.