Publications
Psychological Healing through Sensory Perception in Water- and Culture-Centred Spatial Systems of Northern Chinese Gardens
Northern Chinese gardens, particularly the Beijing Imperial Gardens like the Summer Palace, facilitate psychological healing through a structured sequence involving spatial design, sensory perception, and cultural memory. The study reveals that these gardens guide the body's movement, shift sensory focus, and evoke emotional meaning through cultural associations, contrasting with Western approaches to healing environments. Research methods included interviews, field observations, and analysis of water and landforms, extending insights into fengshui, atmospheric effects, and habitual behavior in hutong courtyards.
Quantitative evaluation of spatial nodes in linear cultural heritage tourism routes: a case study of the Beijing Central Axis
A quantitative evaluation framework reveals significant disparities in cultural depth and service provision along the Beijing Central Axis. Imperial palace segments exhibit high historical value but lack adequate facilities, while traditional commercial areas thrive but risk losing their authentic atmosphere. The study applies entropy weight method (EWM) and TOPSIS model to assess 19 indicators across six dimensions, offering a data-driven approach for refining management strategies. This methodology provides a transferable paradigm for preserving linear cultural heritage sites globally.
A Discussion on A Portuguese Embassy at The Old Summer Palace
A significant diplomatic encounter between China and Portugal during the 18th century is illuminated through a detailed analysis of historical documents, revealing the intricate dynamics of cultural exchange at the Old Summer Palace. The study highlights five key audiences between Emperor Qianlong of China and the Portuguese embassy led by Francisco Pacheco de Sampaio in 1752–1753, where both parties fulfilled their roles and aspirations, contributing to mutual understanding. By cross-referencing Chinese and Portuguese records, the research reconstructs this pivotal moment in Sino-Portuguese relations, underscoring its broader implications for historical diplomacy.
Application of smalt in building glazed tiles from Yuanmingyuan Park, Beijing’ in Qing dynasty
Research on blue-glazed tiles from Yuanmingyuan Park (Summer Palace) reveals the use of smalt, a European-derived cobalt material, alongside Chinese cobalt ore during the Qing Dynasty. Analysis of nine lead-glazed pottery samples identified high levels of potassium (K), arsenic (As), nickel (Ni), barium (Ba), bismuth (Bi), and uranium (U), characteristic of imported smalt, while manganese (Mn) indicated the inclusion of local Chinese cobalt ore. The findings suggest a hybrid approach to ceramic production, blending foreign and domestic materials, which persisted into Qing-era craftsmanship.
Awareness and Behaviors of Beijing Residents Regarding Wetland Conservation
A survey of over 1,000 Beijing residents reveals strong public support for wetland conservation, with 92.5% willing to volunteer and a preference for small annual donations. While most residents prioritize wetland protection over economic development, awareness of ecological functions like biodiversity conservation remains low. The study highlights that visit rates are higher at urban wetlands such as Shichahai and Summer Palace Wetlands, suggesting proximity influences behavior. These findings provide critical insights for policy-making to enhance public engagement and wetland conservation efforts in Beijing.
The Protection and Development Utilization of Architectural Paintings in Beijing's Imperial Gardens
Architectural paintings in Beijing's imperial gardens, particularly those from the Ming and Qing dynasties, are revealed as pivotal elements that enhance both aesthetic appeal and structural longevity of wooden buildings. These paintings, characterized by their diversity and craftsmanship, hold significant cultural and social value. The study analyzes the intricate relationship between these paintings and garden structures, offering insights into their preservation challenges and providing recommendations for revitalizing this cultural heritage. By examining past achievements and issues in preservation, the research aims to guide future efforts in protecting and utilizing these artistic elements effectively.
A Framework for Measuring Tree Rings Based on Panchromatic Images and Deep Learning
Researchers have developed an automated framework for measuring tree rings using panchromatic images and deep learning, significantly advancing the efficiency of ecological and climatological studies. This innovative method leverages convolutional neural networks to enhance image quality, segment tree rings with precision, and perform ring counting and width calculation in a post-processing stage. The approach was validated using an extensive dataset from diverse sources, including Beijing Forestry University and the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Summer Palace. By automating traditionally labor-intensive processes, this study offers a transformative tool for decoding tree-ring data, providing deeper insights into environmental impacts on tree growth patterns over time.
A multi-level quantitative analysis method on the scale, shape and quantity of rockeries in Chinese classical gardens: taking Wanfang Anhe rockery in the Old Summer Palace as an example
A novel multi-level quantitative analysis method for rockeries in Chinese classical gardens, including the Summer Palace's Wanfang Anhe rockery, demonstrates feasibility and effectiveness in objectively describing scale, shape, and quantity. This approach, leveraging 3D digital technology and historical data, categorizes analysis into four levels: overall, regional, hierarchical, and individual. Applied to seven rockeries, it provides comprehensive data for refined understanding of construction techniques and preventive protection, offering a promising tool for informatization management.
The “Beijing Experience” of 18th-Century French Jesuits
Eighteenth-century French Jesuits, through their 'Beijing experience,' provided a foundational European account of the imperial capital and its cultural, political, and natural landscape. Their missions, marked by access to the Qing court due to expertise in art, science, and medicine, offered unprecedented observations of Beijing's imperial garden (Yuen-min-yuen) and recorded significant environmental events like floods and earthquakes. By conducting a multifaceted 'city reading,' they compared China and the West across political, economic, cultural, and military dimensions, contributing critically to 18th-century European knowledge about Beijing.
The Effect of Enclosure Layout on Wind Environment in Chinese Classic Landscape Gardens: A Case Study of Beijing’s Summer Palace Ruins Garden
Research on the Summer Palace Ruins Garden reveals that enclosure layout significantly influences wind comfort and ventilation in classical Chinese landscape gardens. Key findings indicate that increasing the direction index of earthen hill spaces reduces wind speed and comfort but enhances ventilation, while higher density indices similarly decrease wind speed and comfort, improving airflow. Conversely, larger area indices boost wind speed, potentially enhancing comfort but risking poor ventilation. The study employed on-site measurements and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to analyze these effects, offering critical insights for optimizing wind environments in historic gardens like the Summer Palace.
Social Value of Urban Green Space Based on Visitors’ Perceptions: The Case of the Summer Palace, Beijing, China
A study on the Summer Palace, Beijing, reveals that cultural, historical, and aesthetic values are increasingly favored by visitors, with social value hotspots centered around architectural complexes and waters. Using public participation geographic information systems (PPGIS), researchers assessed ecosystem services' social value and its spatial distribution, finding three core hotspot areas. The research also highlights differences in perceptions between anthropocentrists and ecocentrists, with the latter showing higher overall social value indices. This analysis provides insights for urban ecological space planning and management, emphasizing the relationship between environmental landscape features and visitors' perceived social values.
Understanding the world heritage sites’ brand diffusion and formation via social media: a mixed-method study
A comprehensive analysis of brand diffusion and formation for UNESCO World Heritage Sites (WHSs) on social media reveals that while long-term high-frequency keywords predominantly center on history and culture, short-term brand events significantly boost user-generated content. Media accounts were found to have a disproportionate influence on information dissemination compared to other account types, though follower count does not necessarily correlate with interaction levels. The study, which analyzed over 10 million posts from Sina Weibo for four Beijing sites—Palace Museum, Great Wall, Summer Palace, and Temple of Heaven—employed mixed methods including text mining, keyword analysis, and social network analysis to uncover these branding mechanisms. This holistic approach provides actionable insights for destination marketers aiming to optimize strategies for WHS promotion.
Impact of Urban Historical Parks on Physical Activity and Public Health in Beijing
Urban historical parks, such as Beijing's Summer Palace, Beihai Park, and the Temple of Heaven, significantly influence physical activity and public health by fostering a quiet atmosphere that encourages walking and exercise. Research reveals that while factors like travel time, scenic attractiveness, and ancient trees correlate with increased physical activity, mental health benefits are tied to education, park size, and aesthetic landscapes. Air quality and social companionship also play crucial roles in physical well-being. Notably, the impact varies by park due to unique features, but a tranquil environment consistently boosts activity levels. Beyond promoting exercise, these parks serve vital cultural, social cohesion, and conservation functions, underscoring their multifaceted importance beyond mere recreational value.
Intersecting narratives of site: Fragrant Hill Hotel as a reconstruction project
A study reveals that I.M. Pei's Fragrant Hill Hotel, completed in 1983, embodies a tension between historical preservation and modern architectural identity, reflecting differing perspectives from Chinese and American critiques. The research traces the site's transformations through chronological review and formal analysis, uncovering how design functions as a form of power in its historical narrative. By comparing discourses of 'hunting park' and 'imperial garden,' the study highlights discrepancies in interpretation, partly attributed to temporal and cultural standpoints.
Making the Palace Machine Work: Mobilizing People, Objects, and Nature in the Qing Empire ed. by Martina Siebert, Kai Jun Chen, and Dorothy Ko
Newly opened archives reveal the sophisticated operations of the Qing dynasty's Imperial Household Agency (Neiwufu), showcasing its role as a vast, machine-like institution that mobilized people, objects, and nature across an expanding empire. The agency, headquartered in Beijing but with operations stretching throughout China, managed the acquisition, processing, and transformation of raw materials—such as wood, jade, porcelain, and fur—to produce luxurious items for the imperial family, including furniture, textiles, ceramics, and even live elephants. It relied on a complex network of skilled laborers, artisans, and technical expertise from diverse ethnic groups, including Tibetans, Mongols, and Europeans. The study highlights the agency's organizational innovations, such as sophisticated record-keeping, audits, and surveillance systems, which paralleled broader societal processes. While the 'palace machine' analogy emphasizes its systematic nature, the research also underscores the flexibility and adaptability of its operations, challenging rigid notions of rationality.
Tourist risk assessment of pollen allergy in tourism attractions: A case study in the Summer Palace, Beijing, China
A comprehensive risk assessment of pollen allergy for tourists at the Summer Palace, Beijing, identified seven primary allergenic plants, with Platycladus orientalis and Salix babylonica posing the highest risk. The study, using a multidisciplinary approach combining ecology, medicine, phenology, and risk management, revealed that certain spots like the Hall of Serenity and routes such as the Long Corridor and Longevity Hill exhibit high-risk levels for pollen allergy during spring. This research underscores the need for strengthened monitoring and dynamic assessment of pollen-allergy risks to mitigate potential impacts on tourism experiences amidst global warming and urbanization.
Chinese Gardens as a Nativity Scene: Matteo Ripa’s Description of the Kangxi Emperor’s Changchun Garden in Beijing
Matteo Ripa's 18th-century account of the Kangxi Emperor's Changchun Garden in Beijing reveals the 'artificial naturalness' of Chinese gardens, offering a unique comparison to Neapolitan nativity scenes. Through critical analysis, this study evaluates the accuracy and cultural context of Ripa's detailed descriptions, highlighting his dual role as both observer and commentator on Chinese aesthetic values. The research demonstrates how Ripa's perspective bridges European and Chinese garden design philosophies, providing insights into Qing Dynasty imperial landscapes. By juxtaposing his illustrations with traditional nativity scenes, the study underscores the intricate balance between human craftsmanship and natural elements in Chinese gardens.
Royal Land Use and Management in Beijing in the Qing Dynasty
Royal land management in the Qing Dynasty's Summer Palace was characterized by strategic planning that balanced landscape value with economic benefits, emphasizing gardens as core elements, farmland as backgrounds, and waterways as connectors. The study reveals a highly authoritative management system under the Imperial Household Department (Neiwufu), detailing revenue, expenditure, and fund flows to support garden construction. By analyzing spatial distribution and land use types, researchers uncovered a dual-system model: directional revenue and expenditure, alongside quota-based systems. This approach ensured sustainable landscape development while maintaining imperial governance structures.
The Sagacious Vocation of the Qianlong Emperor
Qianlong Emperor's patronage of the 'Pictures of Tilling and Weaving' showcased his strategic use of cultural artifacts to legitimize his reign. He positioned these 13th-century scrolls as cosmic endorsements, employing Evidential Learning methodologies to re-evaluate Chinese history and culture, aligning it with Qing dynasty interests. His reconstruction of a southern Jiangnan village within the Summer Palace (now part of Beijing's UNESCO-listed site) brought the paintings to life, blending idealized imagery with lived labor. This fusion of art, history, and political narrative underscores Qianlong's role in shaping imperial legacy through cultural production.
Military histories of ‘Summer Palace’ objects from China in military museums in the United Kingdom
During the Second Opium War (1856–60), British and French forces looted and destroyed the Yuanmingyuan, China's most significant palace complex, dispersing over a million imperial artifacts globally. This study examines how five UK military museums present these 'Summer Palace' objects, revealing the constructed narratives around China's imperial heritage in Western institutional contexts. The research employs qualitative analysis of museum displays to uncover the meanings attributed to these artifacts, offering insight into the cultural implications of colonial-era looting and its lasting representation.
Reliefs of the Summer Palace: An Early Onset of Russian Antiquity
The reliefs of the Summer Palace represent an early attempt at classical art in Russia, distinct from the works of Andreas Schlüter or his successors. These 28 bas-reliefs and one haute-relief, themed around Ovid’s Metamorphoses, blend propagandistic allegories with personal reflections on Peter the Great's life. The study reveals that while some reliefs are modeled after engravings by Giovanni Andrea Maglioli, the majority draw inspiration from a set of 226 engravings by Charles Le Brun, accompanying a free-verse translation of Metamorphoses by Isaac de Berserade. This work, encountered by Peter during his Great Embassy or among European friends' collections, provided the first comprehensive plastic representation of Ovid’s works in Russia. The reliefs exhibit inventive compositions and recurrent maritime motifs, suggesting Peter's direct involvement and a unique synthesis of literary, allegorical, personal, and statesmanlike elements.
The Landscape of Fact and Fantasy
Eighteenth-century European accounts, including those by Henri Bertin, depicted Chinese gardens—particularly the Yuanming yuan (Garden of Perfect Brightness)—as artful simulacra of nature, contrasting sharply with the formal, wasteful European ideal epitomized by Versailles. This study synthesizes European translations and Chinese texts from the period to reveal how the Yuanming yuan was portrayed as a pinnacle of imperial Qing garden design, challenging Western perceptions of excess. By analyzing Mémoires concerning les Chinois (1777) and later volumes, the research reconstructs the cultural exchange between Europe and China, highlighting the Yuanming yuan's significance in both historical and comparative garden studies.
Tourism, heritage protection and utilization in China
China's heritage tourism, despite its vast potential due to rich cultural diversity and historical resources, faces significant challenges. A study analyzing multistakeholder management structures and community participation in two Great Wall World Heritage Sites reveals complex dynamics in heritage tourism governance. It highlights the need for balanced shared use between visitors and residents, using case studies from the Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven to illustrate these issues. The research underscores the importance of inclusive management practices that integrate local communities while addressing the demands of rapid tourism development.
Chromatographic, Microscopic, and Spectroscopic Characterization of a Wooden Architectural Painting from the Summer Palace, Beijing, China
A comprehensive analysis of wooden architectural paintings from the Summer Palace in Beijing reveals the use of blood as a binding medium and identifies emerald green and ultramarine pigments. The study employed advanced techniques, including scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive spectrometry (SEM-EDS), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and morphological microscopy, to systematically characterize the morphology and material composition of these ancient decorative artworks. These findings provide crucial insights into the preparation techniques used in the renowned Summer Palace, offering a scientific basis for restoration efforts and archaeological research.
Discussion on Restoration Design of Landscape Site Based on 3DTerrestrial Laser Scanning : a Case Study of Qiwang Hall in Summer Palace, Beijing, China
A novel application of three-dimensional terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) demonstrates its potential to advance the restoration and preservation of damaged UNESCO World Heritage Sites, specifically showcased through a case study of Qiwang Hall in Beijing's Summer Palace. This method enables precise documentation of structural degradation, filling critical gaps in historical records by integrating TLS data with archival research. The approach not only provides a detailed baseline for site protection but also offers a scalable model for restoring and understanding the value of heritage sites that have suffered significant deterioration. By bridging technological innovation with traditional conservation practices, this study sets a precedent for future restoration efforts, ensuring more accurate reconstructions and deeper historical insights.
Invulnerability Analysis of Traffic Network in Tourist Attraction Under Unexpected Emergency Events Based on Cascading Failure
A critical threshold for network load (δ < 0.7) can prevent large-scale cascading failures in tourist traffic networks, such as the Summer Palace in Beijing, which exhibits small-world characteristics. The study reveals that increasing the capacity of high-risk nodes—ranked by cascading failure rate (CFR)—can reduce failure scale by up to 63.66%. Researchers simulated emergency events using load-capacity models and attack strategies, identifying key factors like node capacity, adjacency relationships, and load distribution as significant influencers on failure dynamics.
The Old Summer Palace and the Rhetoric of National Treasures
A critical analysis of the Old Summer Palace reveals how its designation as a national treasure is constructed through rhetorical strategies, shaping its cultural and legal significance. The study examines how narratives surrounding the site's historical value influence its preservation and public perception, highlighting tensions between heritage conservation and political discourse. Gillman employs discourse analysis to dissect official documents, legal texts, and media representations, uncovering the ideological underpinnings of its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This approach underscores the interplay between cultural memory, national identity, and the instrumentalization of heritage for political ends.
Exhibiting and Auctioning Yuanmingyuan ("Summer Palace") Loot in 1860s and 1870s London: The Elgin and Negroni Collections
In the mid-19th century, looted artifacts from China's Yuanmingyuan (Summer Palace) were strategically exhibited and auctioned in London to boost their market value. James Bruce, 8th Earl of Elgin, and Captain Jean-Louis de Negroni, both involved in the Anglo-French armies, showcased their collections at prestigious venues like the South Kensington Museum (now the V&A) and the Crystal Palace. This study reveals how museum exhibitions and auction houses collaborated to enhance the perceived worth of these looted objects, demonstrating a deliberate interplay between cultural display and commercial transaction during this period.
“Digital Heritage” Theory and Innovative Practice
A conceptual framework for 'digital heritage' is proposed, integrating cultural heritage with digitization technology and digital knowledge research. This approach extends beyond traditional digitization to include the creation and innovative application of digital content, such as intellectual property, experiential education, tourism, film, and media. The study evaluates this concept through case studies of the Palazzo Valentini in Rome and the Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan) in Beijing, assessing its relevance for current industry developments and future prospects.
A miniaturized sensor for detection of formaldehyde fumes
A novel miniaturized chemical sensor demonstrates high sensitivity for detecting formaldehyde (FA) fumes, with performance comparable to commercial monitoring equipment. The sensor, worn as a bracelet and connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth, converts signal data into a color scale for real-time visualization. It effectively measures FA concentrations across low (20–120 ppb) and higher (1–15 ppm) ranges, making it suitable for environmental monitoring in culturally significant settings like the Summer Palace in Beijing. The study also highlights its potential to assess FA-induced modifications in delicate artifacts, such as a Stradivarius violin, offering a non-invasive tool for conservation research.
Application of a mini radar network for dust-devil monitoring for tourist sites: the example of the Summer Palace, Beijing
A novel dust-devil monitoring system, utilizing three non-collinear mini weather radars, has been successfully demonstrated at the Summer Palace in Beijing. This approach outperforms traditional volume velocity processing (VVP) wind retrieval methods, offering enhanced detection capabilities for hazardous whirlwinds that pose risks to tourists and their property. The study highlights the potential of this radar network system for broader application across other tourist sites, contributing significantly to site security and visitor safety.
Collecting and Displaying China’s “Summer Palace” in the West
Over a million objects from the Yuanmingyuan, or Summer Palace—a significant imperial Chinese palace complex—were looted during the Second Opium War and dispersed globally. This study reveals how Western museums, including the Royal Engineers Museum in Kent, the National Museum of Scotland, and the Musee Chinois at Château de Fontainebleau, shaped the display of these artifacts over 150 years, reflecting European cultural, political, and aesthetic biases rather than the original context of the Yuanmingyuan. By analyzing museum practices, the research offers insights into Western representations of China during this period.
From the Summer Palace 1860
A significant portion of objects labeled as originating from the Summer Palace, Beijing, lack verifiable provenance, despite some having clear ties to the 1860 sacking. The study highlights how Western markets in the 19th century often used vague descriptions like 'From the Imperial Summer Palace' for newly acquired items, obscuring their true origins. This practice exacerbated China's political humiliation and cultural loss during colonial-era conflicts. The research examines historical records, sales data, and government responses to trace the movement of artworks, architectural fragments, and manuscripts from Yuanmingyuan (the Old Summer Palace) to Western collections.
Monitoring of Vibrations for the Conservation of Cultural Heritage：the Case of the Summer Palace in Beijing
Vibration levels at the Grand Stage of Beijing's Summer Palace remain below 10 mm/s², with significant correlations to visitor traffic, transportation, and weather conditions. This finding underscores the need for targeted conservation strategies that account for dynamic environmental factors. Researchers used CMG-5TCDE accelerometers to collect real-time vibration data over two years, combining this with wind speed and transportation statistics through control variable analysis and multivariate statistical methods. The study highlights how precise monitoring can inform preservation efforts for vulnerable cultural heritage sites, offering a model for balancing public access with structural integrity.
Reconfiguring Patriarchal Space: Empress Dowager Cixi (1835–1908) and the Reconstruction of the Gardens of Nurtured Harmony (Chapter 6)
Empress Dowager Cixi redefined patriarchal spaces by transforming the Gardens of Nurtured Harmony into an arena of female agency, challenging traditional gender norms. The study reveals how she leveraged architectural reconstruction to assert her authority as a ruler and matron of art, hosting significant events like a formal reception for Prince Henry of Prussia in 1897. Cixi's patronage extended to pioneering photographic and oil portrait experiments, culminating in an unprecedented opening of imperial domestic space to international scrutiny when American painter Katharine Carl documented her stay in a widely circulated memoir (1905). The research scrutinizes these strategies, arguing that the garden became a symbol of Cixi’s influence and female empowerment within Qing imperial culture.
Recording Information on Architectural Heritage Should Meet the Requirements for Conservation Digital Recording Practices at the Summer Palace
Accurate and purpose-driven digital recording of architectural heritage information is essential for effective conservation, management, and research. The study highlights that understanding the nature and value of heritage sites should guide technology selection rather than being driven by it. It emphasizes that appropriate accuracy levels, tailored to specific needs such as structural analysis or display, are more critical than high precision alone. Using the Summer Palace in Beijing as a case study, the research demonstrates how digital recording practices—including Close Range Photogrammetry and 3D Laser Scanning—can support heritage conservation when aligned with clear objectives. The findings underscore that technology should serve as a means to an end, not the primary goal, in heritage preservation efforts.
The Afterlives of a Ruin
During the Second Opium War, British and French forces systematically destroyed the Yuanming, Changchun, and Qichun Gardens near Beijing, looting thousands of artifacts that were subsequently sold, displayed, or collected in Europe. The study reveals how these gardens—once prized imperial landscapes—became symbols of Western cultural appropriation, with plundered items labeled as 'from the Summer Palace' entering museums, auction markets, and private collections. Additionally, the ruins of European-style palaces within Yuanmingyuan attracted foreign diplomats and their entourage, who found them a picturesque spot for leisure activities.
The Monitoring and Analysis of the Chinese Traditional Architecture Painting Decay – the Case of Jilan Pavilion in the Summer Palace
Research on the Jilan Pavilion at Beijing's Summer Palace reveals that illumination, particularly mirror reflection from Kunming Lake, is the primary cause of color decay in traditional Chinese architectural paintings. The study, conducted since 2013, compared two paintings—one facing east and one facing west—painted simultaneously but exhibiting differing decay levels. Using ECOTECT software to simulate light environments, scientists found that the west eave (facing east) experienced higher illumination due to lake reflections, leading to accelerated deterioration. This insight underscores the significance of environmental factors in preserving cultural heritage, offering a data-driven approach to conservation strategies for UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Tracking dispersal: auction sales from the Yuanmingyuan loot in Paris in the 1860s
A systematic analysis of Parisian auction sales between 1861 and 1869 reveals the dispersal pathways of artefacts looted from the Yuanmingyuan (Summer Palace) during the Second Opium War. The study, leveraging French auction records and catalogues, identifies key sellers, buyers, and prices, providing unprecedented insights into the market mechanisms and trajectories of these objects in Europe. Despite challenges in tracing dealer sales due to limited archives, this research offers a comprehensive dataset on the provenance and current whereabouts of looted artefacts, contributing significantly to the understanding of cultural heritage loss during conflict.
Afterthought of the Old Summer Palace Restoration - Study on Protection and Development of the Chinese Landscape Cultural Heritage Based on Ontology
A study on the Old Summer Palace in Beijing reveals that regeneration, rather than mere preservation or restoration, is crucial for excavating and maintaining Chinese cultural heritage. The research suggests that focusing on the survival process of cultural elements—rather than their physical form—can better align with Eastern philosophical values centered on reincarnation and life energy. This approach addresses the challenge of urbanization and improper protection, which threatens the integrity and memory of the site's landscape features. By applying ontology-based methods, the study offers a framework for sustainable development and cultural tourism that respects both modern globalization and traditional Chinese values.
Monitoring Cultural Heritage Sites with Advanced Multi-Temporal InSAR Technique: The Case Study of the Summer Palace
A novel Multi-Temporal Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (MTInSAR) technique revealed that the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Summer Palace in Beijing, remains largely stable but faces localized risks. The study identified mm/cm-level instabilities in Longevity Hill's ruins and monuments, likely due to human activities and natural decay. Subsidence near East and South Gates was linked to urbanization, while groundwater variations and over-tourism contributed to instability along Kunming Lakeside. This advanced approach, combining Persistent Scatterers (PSs) and Distributed Scatterers (DSs), offers a high-precision tool for early risk detection and preventive conservation of cultural heritage sites.
The Spatial Feature of the Old Summer Palace of China from the Aspect of Architectural Disposition on the Qing Dynasty Painting "Forty Scenes of the Yuanmingyuan"
A key insight from this study is that the Old Summer Palace's garden spaces, as depicted in Qing Dynasty paintings, not only adhered to traditional ethical codes but also incorporated innovative architectural dispositions. These innovations emphasized imperial authority in political and ritual spaces, highlighted central activity areas in religious spaces, prioritized privacy and safety in living quarters while integrating natural scenery, and reinforced royal status through regular configurations in touring spaces. The research employed cluster analysis to categorize the architectural layouts of 40 gardens into four types, examining their spatial features based on these dispositions.
Analysis of the techniques and materials of the coloured paintings in the Renshou Hall in the Summer Palace
Scientists have uncovered the intricate techniques and materials used in the colored paintings of the Renshou Hall within Beijing's Summer Palace. By employing non-destructive analytical methods, researchers identified the pigments and binding agents that contribute to the enduring vibrancy of these ancient Chinese construction paintings. This study sheds light on the craftsmanship and artistic practices of the Qing Dynasty, offering valuable insights into the preservation and restoration of cultural heritage. The approach utilized integrated techniques to analyze the materials without causing damage, ensuring that the historical integrity of the site remains intact.
Coordination between Understanding Historic Buildings and BIM Modelling: A 3D-Output Oriented and typological Data Capture Method
A novel 'structure-and-type method' enables seamless coordination between the understanding of historic buildings and Building Information Modeling (BIM), addressing the shift from 2D to 3D-output oriented surveys. This approach integrates typological methods from archaeology, Revit family systems, and tectonic logic, as demonstrated through case studies at two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Summer Palace in Beijing and Jiayuguan Pass on the Great Wall. The method enhances the accuracy and efficiency of BIM modeling for historic structures by capturing data in a way that aligns with architectural understanding and typological classification, offering a robust framework for future preservation efforts.
Discussion of impact of relics activation on protection and utilization approaches-take the old summer palace as an example
The activation of cultural relics, such as the Old Summer Palace in Beijing, significantly enhances public engagement and understanding while posing challenges to their preservation. This study identifies that effective interpretation of historical and cultural significance can fulfill social service functions without compromising heritage protection. By analyzing resource characteristics, it proposes sustainable approaches for balancing tourism development with relic conservation, offering a model for other UNESCO World Heritage Sites in China.
Liberal Barbarism: The European Destruction of the Palace of the Emperor of China
The destruction of the Yuanmingyuan (Old Summer Palace) by French and British troops in 1860 was not an erratic act but a calculated performance rooted in liberalism's confrontation with resistance. Erik Ringmar's analysis reveals this vandalism as a strategic move to instill fear in China and assert Western dominance, marking a pivotal moment in the decline of the Qing Dynasty's Sino-centric international system. Drawing on British and French historical sources, the study reconstructs the motives behind the demolition while contextualizing it within broader societal and political frameworks. This work provides insight into how liberal ideals, when met with defiance, could manifest as barbarism, reshaping global power dynamics.
Research on digital exhibition Old Summer Palace somatosensory interaction based on Leap Motion
A novel approach using Leap Motion technology enhances the immersive experience of digital exhibitions at UNESCO World Heritage Sites, particularly for the Old Summer Palace. This somatosensory interaction method allows users to engage with virtual reconstructions through intuitive hand gestures, reducing reliance on traditional input devices like mice or keyboards. The study demonstrates that high-fidelity virtual environments can effectively bridge the gap between real and simulated experiences, offering a non-invasive way to explore cultural heritage without altering original sites. This innovation addresses challenges in digital preservation by enabling detailed scene interactions while preserving historical integrity.
Trophies of War: Representing ‘Summer Palace’ Loot in Military Museums in the UK
British and French troops looted and destroyed the Yuanmingyuan (Summer Palace) during the Second Opium War, dispersing over a million imperial artifacts globally. This study reveals that military museums in the UK continue to display these artifacts, framing them as 'trophies of war' rather than acknowledging their cultural significance or the context of their acquisition through conflict. The research analyzes how five UK military museums represent these objects, highlighting the complex narratives constructed around China's imperial heritage in such institutional settings.
Exploring the Shared Use of World Heritage Sites: Residents and Domestic Tourists' Use and Perceptions of the Summer Palace in Beijing
Residents and domestic tourists at the Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Beijing, share similar motivations and experiences despite differing use patterns. The study highlights that while both groups value the site for its cultural significance and aesthetic appeal, their behaviors—such as peak visitation times and preferred areas—can lead to conflicts or interplay. These findings provide actionable insights for heritage management, suggesting strategies to balance shared access while mitigating potential disruptions.
Residents' use and perceptions of the Summer Palace World Heritage Site in Beijing, China
Local residents' recreational and social engagement with the Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Beijing, has been significantly understudied. This research identifies distinct use patterns, motivations, and perceptions among local users, revealing that their interactions with the site extend beyond traditional roles as service providers or impacted stakeholders. Findings highlight how residents utilize the Summer Palace for leisure, social activities, and cultural experiences, offering new insights into the multifaceted dynamics of heritage sites shared by tourists and locals. The study employed qualitative methods to capture residents' experiences and perspectives, providing practical implications for future management strategies that better accommodate diverse user needs.
A Mobile Application for Virtual Heritage and UGC Public Sharing
A mobile application for virtual heritage, utilizing 4D visualization and location-based services (LBS), successfully bridges the gap between professional heritage documentation and public engagement. This innovation enables dynamic, tempo-spatial storytelling of UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Beijing's Summer Palace, enhancing on-site experiences through iOS compatibility while fostering interaction via user-generated content (UGC). The Re-yuangmingyuan program demonstrates how such technologies can revolutionize heritage conservation by facilitating real-time dialogue between managers and the public. While implementation challenges persist, this approach sets a precedent for leveraging modern tech to preserve and share cultural narratives globally.
An Imperial Theme Park
The Yuanmingyuan, or Summer Palace, was a sprawling imperial complex in Beijing, encompassing 5,100 mu—comparable to Central Park in New York—featuring intricate gardens, lakes, and man-made landscapes. It housed over 40 acres of structures, including palaces, temples, and government offices, connected by scenic corridors. The site also contained a vast library with China's literary and philosophical works and galleries displaying artworks, including tributary gifts from foreign delegations. This study provides a detailed description of the Yuanmingyuan's architectural and cultural significance, highlighting its role as an imperial theme park that blended natural beauty with political and scholarly functions.
Fanning the Flames of Popular Nationalism: The Debate in China over the Burning of the Old Summer Palace
A growing debate in China over the legacy of the Old Summer Palace, destroyed by British and French troops in 1860, reveals deep divisions in national narratives. While the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has amplified this traumatic event to bolster nationalist legitimacy, linking it to the 'Century of Humiliation,' online critics challenge its official version, accusing it of bias and excessive resource allocation. This study highlights how the CCP's historical framing serves as a tool for political legitimization but also sparks dissent, with some citizens arguing that China remains subordinate to foreign powers despite decades under CCP rule.
Yuanmingyuan Revisited: The Confrontation of China and the West
The ruins of Yuanmingyuan, or the Old Summer Palace in Beijing, stand as a stark symbol of the confrontation between China and the West during the 19th century. This study reveals that the destruction of this imperial garden by British and French forces in 1860 was not merely an act of war but a deliberate erasure of Chinese cultural heritage to assert Western dominance. Through historical analysis, the research examines the geopolitical tensions, colonial ambitions, and the broader implications of this event on Sino-Western relations. The approach combines archival research with critical discourse analysis, offering a nuanced perspective on how material destruction served as a tool of imperial power.
Intra-attraction Tourist Spatial-Temporal Behaviour Patterns
Research on the Summer Palace identifies seven distinct spatial-temporal behavior patterns among tourists. These patterns are influenced primarily by temporal factors and exhibit space-time tension, where tourists' stay time decreases as exit constraints increase. The study employs a combination approach integrating quantitative and qualitative methods based on time geography concepts to analyze these behaviors. Findings reveal that understanding tourist activities can enhance attraction management, product renewal, and marketing strategies, ultimately improving visitor experiences. This work provides a scientific foundation for upgrading facilities within the Summer Palace.
An Authentic Account of the Embassy of the Dutch East-India Company, to the Court of the Emperor of China, in the Years 1794 and 1795
A rare and vivid account of the Dutch East India Company's embassy to China in 1794–1795, this travelogue offers a unique glimpse into the Summer Palace and Chinese imperial court shortly after the British Macartney embassy. André Everard van Braam Houckgeest's meticulous observations, including detailed notes on cultural concepts, a 'correct chart' of the journey from Canton to Beijing, and a full itinerary, provide an authentic and immersive portrayal of late 18th-century China. First published in French (1797) and later in English (1798), the work captivated readers with its exotic descriptions, blending historical significance with vivid storytelling.
Chora, Volume Six
Chora, Volume Six, offers a multidisciplinary exploration of the cultural and historical roots of architecture, revealing how diverse conceptual frameworks—ranging from Fritz Lang's futuristic visions to Jesuit perspectives on imperial Chinese gardens—shape architectural thought. The volume examines cross-cultural tensions, such as the Christian appropriation of Aztec symbolism, and delves into phenomenal experiences in iconic structures like the Gothic church of Saint-Denis and the Palace of Minos at Knossos. It also scrutinizes contemporary beliefs through a psychoanalytic lens, questioning modern sustainability concepts. By synthesizing essays on architecture's origins, education, and representation—spanning Vitruvius to Stendhal—the work highlights the interplay between history, symbolism, and materiality in architectural discourse.
Determining Modulus of Elasticity of Ancient Structural Timber
A linear relationship between the modulus of stress-resistograph and the modulus of elasticity (MOE) was identified, with correlation coefficients reaching 0.7111. This finding suggests that the modulus of stress-resistograph can be used as a reliable non-destructive method for evaluating MOE in ancient structural timber. The study involved testing four larch wood specimens from the drum-tower of Zhengjue Temple in Beijing using stress wave transmission times, resistograph measurements, and density tests. Traditional bending tests were also conducted to validate the relationship. For more accurate future evaluations, 95% confidence regression lines are recommended for calculations.
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