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October 12, 2010
A taste of China’s “Forbidden” fruit comes to the U.S.
Before traveling to any new destination, I usually try to learn as much about its culture as I can, which I imagine many of you do as well. But once I return, I’m often eager to learn even more by seeing related exhibits or films, or even seeking out authentic restaurants that serve a particular specialty.
Such is the case with China (which I’ve visited several times), whose Forbidden City in Beijing is the basis of a new exhibition at one of my favorite Boston-area museums: the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, Massachusetts. I’m especially excited to see the exhibit, The Emperor’s Private Paradise: Treasures from the Forbidden City*, which reveals nearly a hundred ceremonial and decorative objects—such as artworks, jades, and furniture—from the Qianlong Garden, a private realm deep within the palace compound (built and used by the powerful 18th-century Emperor of the same name).
During previous visits to the awe-inspiring Forbidden City, the mystery behind its magnificence was always palpable for me, since portions of the site are not open to the public. But now, some of the beautiful, hidden treasures of an ancient Chinese Leader are being revealed to the outside world for the first time—right in my own back yard! I look forward to seeing this special exhibition for myself. Maybe Alan will even join me …
Do you have any good recommendations for exhibitions, films, or books about China—or any stories about traveling there with Grand Circle? If so, I’d love to hear them. Share your comments below this Journal entry, or email me directly at harriet@gct.com.
In the coming weeks, we’ll be spotlighting our vacations in France, Mexico, and the South Pacific. If you’ve explored any—or all!—of these fascinating destinations with Grand Circle, I hope you’ll send your stories and pictures to me at harriet@gct.com.
*This exhibition will be on view at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York and the Milwaukee Art Museum in 2011.
Harriet Lewis