Step inside the Hong Kong Palace Museum and discover two exquisite Qing Dynasty ritual instruments from 1761. Crafted for imperial ceremonies, these pieces highlight the blend of art, science and sound that defined ancient Chinese traditions.
Teqing: The Jade Chime
Forged from pure nephrite jade and emblazoned with gilded decorations, the teqing once rang out in court music. It is one of twelve chimes, each tuned to a unique pitch, reflecting the traditional twelve-tone system.
Bozhong: The Gilded Bell
Cast in copper alloy and coated in gold, the bozhong formed part of a separate bell set. Like its jade counterpart, it represents a specific month in the traditional Chinese calendar, underscoring the symphony of time and ritual.
Twelve Tones, Twelve Months
Each instrument in these sets corresponds to a month of the traditional calendar. Together, they illustrate how emperors used music to mark seasons, ceremonies and the cycle of life.
For global citizens, entrepreneurs and culture seekers, these artifacts remind us that harmony in design and purpose can transcend centuries, offering a fresh lens on heritage and innovation.
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Echoes of Qing Dynasty ritual harmony at Hong Kong Palace Museum
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