From model to masterpiece: Ironed paper models on view at Ledao Hall

The exhibition From Model to Masterpiece: Tracing the Legacy of Ironed Paper Models opened on Sept 26 at the Ledao Hall of Prince Kung's Palace Museum, bringing together 72 sets of ironed paper models (tangyang) and related artifacts from the collections of the Palace Museum and the Memorial Hall of the Society for Research in Chinese Architecture at the School of Architecture at Tsinghua University, along with six contemporary models crafted using varied techniques.

Dating to the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), the ironed paper models were primarily crafted for the imperial family to review architectural designs before construction. Their name derives from a key step in their making: heated irons were used to shape specific components. These three-dimensional schemes vividly embody the precision, artistry and craftsmanship of Qing architecture, and today serve as invaluable references for the conservation, research, restoration, and reconstruction of historical buildings.

The first section highlights paper models for imperial residences and gardens, underscoring their role in the design-approval-construction process of Qing royal projects. Notable models include those of the Hall of Universal Peace and Harmony (Wanfang Anhe Dian) and Hall of Tranquility and Elegance across the Nation (Jiuzhou Qingyan Dian) from the Tongzhi reign (1862-74) in the Yuanmingyuan, a model of the Gate of Earthly Peace (Di'an Men) with architectural measurements meticulously written on yellow labels, and 20 panel models of interior decorations from the Yangshi Lei architectural archives.

The second section turns to courtly life, presenting models, drawings and related objects that shaped daily activities, such as designs for porcelains used in the wedding ceremony of Emperor Tongzhi (r. 1861-75), of seals, of hats and shoes, and even pastry molds. These works reveal the Qing court's flair for artistry in both ceremonial and everyday settings.

The final section showcases the most intricate imperial mausoleum models, including the burial complex model of Empress Dowager Ci'an (1837-81) and a 3D-printed reconstruction of Emperor Tongzhi's tomb produced by the Ethnological Museum of Berlin in collaboration with the Technical University of Berlin, based on detailed scanning data.

In addition, four newly created ironed paper models inspired by Prince Kung's Palace architectural remains are displayed alongside videos illustrating their production process, offering visitors an immersive understanding of this traditional craft.

The exhibition concludes with a thought-provoking juxtaposition of Western mathematical instruments introduced to China during the Qing Dynasty and traditional Chinese carpentry rulers, inviting reflection on shared living and thinking approaches across cultures.

This exhibition stems from collaborative research between Prince Kung's Palace Museum and the Palace Museum on the conservation and restoration of the Prince Kung's Palace site. Curated by Prince Kung's Palace Museum with in-depth participation from the Palace Museum, it will run until Dec 25.