|
||||||
Home Nation World Business Opinion Lifestyle China Focus ChinAfrica Multimedia Columnists Documents Special Reports |
Nation |
Research-Oriented Renovations |
NO. 38 SEPTEMBER 20, 2018 |
The Yangxin Palace, or the Hall of Mental Cultivation, in the Palace Museum in downtown Beijing recently started its first major renovation in over a century. The museum was the former imperial residence, known as the Forbidden City in the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1911). The 19 craftspeople who will participate in the renovation were selected from 116 candidates who all received two years of rigorous training. According to Shan Jixiang, Curator of the Palace Museum, the renovation process will be research-oriented. If a piece of brick, tile or wood needs to be changed, the material to be used to replace it will be consistent with the original. The Yangxin Palace renovation project steers away from traditional thinking which treats cultural heritage renovation as a mere construction project. In addition to artifact and ancient architecture renovation, 33 research subjects on the history of the palace and its architecture will be conducted. Moreover, cultural heritage preservation programs should be expanded to include the planning and protection of the surrounding environment. They should not be focused on artifacts alone, but should help promote cultural progress in communities and cities. For instance, ancient temples in Japan serve not only as venues for religious activities but also as museums to display historical treasures, improving a city's overall cultural atmosphere. (This is an edited excerpt of an article originally published in People's Daily on September 7) |
About Us | Contact Us | Advertise with Us | Subscribe
|
||
Copyright Beijing Review All rights reserved 京ICP备08005356号 京公网安备110102005860号 |