October 8, 2026
The Hong Kong Museum's three treasures: the Qing Dynasty Imperial Seal of the Mandate of Heaven, the Northern Song Dynasty Ding Ware Child Pillow, and the Northern Song Dynasty Ru Ware Sky-Blue Glazed Washer. These artifacts represent the pinnacle of ancient Chinese imperial power, ceramic craftsmanship, and artistic aesthetics.
Qing Dynasty Imperial Seal of the Mandate of Heaven
Core Status: The first of the "Twenty-Five Imperial Seals" designated by Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty, symbolizing the legitimacy of the Qing rulers' mandate from Heaven. It is the only surviving imperial seal that retains the original Manchu script from the reign of Emperor Taizong.
Characteristics: Made of white jade, with a coiled dragon knob, the seal face measures 14 x 14 cm, and the overall height is 12 cm. It is currently a collection of the Palace Museum.
Northern Song Dynasty Ding Ware Child Pillow
Artistic Value: A representative work of Ding ware white porcelain, selected as one of China's "Nine National Treasures." The child's reclining posture showcases the delicate and realistic style of Song Dynasty ceramic craftsmanship. Historical Significance: Reflecting the ancient Chinese culture of summer bedding designed for "coolness and heat relief," this piece boasts a lustrous glaze, a pure white body, and is extremely rare.
Northern Song Dynasty Ru Ware Sky-Blue Glazed Washer
Rarity: Fewer than 100 pieces of Ru ware survive. This piece is a prime example of sky-blue glaze, its color resembling "sky after rain," symbolizing Emperor Huizong's aesthetic ideals. It has fetched up to 290 million yuan at global auctions.
Craftsmanship: The glaze is flawless and even, representing the pinnacle of Chinese white porcelain craftsmanship.