The rank of a traditional Chinese building can often be identified simply by its painted decoration. Hexi decorative painting (Hexi caihua, literally "Imperial Seal-styled Polychromed Painting"), among all decorative paintings in the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) official-style architecture, represents the highest level, reserved exclusively for important imperial structures like palaces, residential halls, and sacrificial complexes.
At Prince Kung's Palace, although formally a princely residence, traces of this prestigious decoration can only be found in Duofu Belvedere and Ledao Hall along the eastern route, which once served as the residence of Princess Hexiao (1775-1823) following her marriage. As the 10th and most favored daughter of Emperor Qianlong (r. 1736-95), her living quarters were adorned with a decorative style befitting her imperial status.
Distinguished by its three-part composition and lavish use of gold leaf, Hexi decorative painting is instantly recognizable by the signature vertical W-shaped lines linking its central panel and end section of the beams and rafters. Motifs of phoenixes, peonies, and auspicious clouds form a composition both intricate and rigorously ordered – an opulent visual art that vividly reflects imperial status and elegance of the princess.
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