Kublai Khan and His Era Exhibit Opens at Taiwan Museum

The Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum recently opened the exhibit Kublai Khan and His Era. This fascinating display showcases artifacts from the Mongol Yuan Dynasty, which ruled from 1271 to 1368. Visitors can explore a rich collection that includes portraits of Kublai Khan, his empress, jade carvings, and celadon pottery.

One of the standout pieces in the exhibit is the “Portrait of Emperor Shizu,” depicting Kublai Khan himself. The curator, Cheng Shu-fang, explained that the portrait uses a layered smudge painting technique. This method creates realistic skin textures and three-dimensional facial features. Interestingly, this painting style also appears in Tibetan and Nepalese art, highlighting cultural connections.

Similarly, the portrait of Kublai Khan’s empress reveals a blend of influences. She wears the traditional Mongolian Bogtag Malgai crown, but the garment features Islamic gold brocade. This fusion of styles shows the exchange between the Mongols and surrounding cultures.

The exhibit divides Mongolian art into two main themes: the spring hunt and the autumn hunt. For spring, visitors will see a pale jade carving of a gyrfalcon swooping down on a swan among lotus flowers. This piece represents the “spring waters” motif.

In contrast, the autumn hunt is symbolized by a double-sided jade carving. One side shows a red-leafed oak canopy, while the other depicts a court lady offering incense to the goddess of longevity. Jade ornaments served both as decoration and as status symbols for Mongol nobles. Many designs incorporate Chinese motifs, such as cranes representing longevity and lilies symbolizing fortune.

Another highlight is a “Stem Bowl with Celadon Glaze,” crafted by the Tiger Cave kiln in Hangzhou. This kiln once supplied celadon to the Song Dynasty imperial court. The bowl’s design makes it easy to pass around, reflecting the communal spirit of Mongolian grassland banquets.

The exhibition Kublai Khan and His Era will run until October 12. The museum welcomes visitors daily except Mondays. For more details, check the museum’s official website.