Celestial Empire Life in China, 1644-1911

Experience 300 years of Chinese culture and tradition from two of the world’s great libraries. From life at court to life in the villages and fields, glimpse the world of China’s last imperial dynasty and its wealth of cultural tradition. See exquisite and precious objects from the National Library of China. Marvel at drawings and plans for Beijing’s iconic palaces from the Yangshi Lei Archives, listed on UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register in 2007 and never before seen in Australia. Beautiful maps, books and prints come alive in ornate detail. Discover our acclaimed Chinese Collection, including rare items from the London Missionary Society that offer a unique view of early western impressions of China. An exclusive exhibition in partnership with the National Library of China. Exhibited on 02 January 2016 - 22 May 2016, Exhibition Gallery, Ground floor, National Library of Australia, Parkes Place, Canberra