Xuanzi decorative painting(Xuanzi caihua) is characterized by spiral-petaled rosette motifs and was the most widely used form of painted decoration in Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) official architecture. Its name derived from this distinctive motif: a layered floral rosette composed of spiral-shaped petals, rendered in a flat yet geometric style.
From the mid-Qing period to the Republic of China (1912-49), successive eras left their distinct Xuanzi decorative paintings within the Prince Kung's Palace complex, realizing a visual record of changing tastes, function, and status.
At Jiale Hall, the roof ridges feature blue-and-green graded Xuanzi painting outlined in gold, with flower motifs blooming within diamond-shaped panels – hallmarks of the Qianlong reign (1736-95). The hall also preserves plain, ink-outlined patterns, associated with its solemn ritual function during the Prince Kung period (1833-98).
At Duofu Belvedere, Xuanzi decorative painting is distinguished by gold outlines and prominent gold dots at the flower centers, reflecting the second-rank princely status of Yonglin (1766-1820).
Meanwhile, the inner eaves of Palace Gate One are adorned with double bands of Xuanzi decorative painting, marked by ink outlines and notably large gold dots. The style reveals a transitional phase between the mid- and late Qing periods.
Together, these four stylistic expressions from different periods converge within the palace, forming a vivid artistic dialogue across centuries, in which architecture and ornament transcend the passage of time.
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