Guide to the Exhibits First Floor, Main Building
The large room is a reproduction of Tanpakukeisei Hall, the "Hall of Simplicity and Sincerity." This is the main hall in the large complex of Chinese imperial palaces and gardens known as the Mountain Villa; built at the beginning of the Qing Dynasty. In this temporary residential palace, the emperor fulfilled political duties while escaping the summer heat of the capital city. Tanpakukeisei Hall was built for the Kangxi Emperor (r. 1661-1722) and later rebuilt for the Qianlong Emperor (r. 1735-1796). The architecture is a magnificent example of the stately and sophisticated beauty of the Qing Dynasty era. It is also known as Nanboku Hall, a word derived from the wood used in its construction. The original hall was used to hold various official functions, to handle court affairs, and to receive foreign envoys. The doors, decorated ceiling and backrest of the throne are all carved with exceptional craftsmanship and are decorated with auspicious symbols. The framed board hanging behind the screen is an inscription written by the Kangxi Emperor.