The Night Revels of Han Xizai

The Palace Museum welcomes you to explore The Night Revels of Han Xizai! This iPad App will launch you into the world of the Five Dynasties period (906-960 CE) and allow you to see through the eyes of the alleged painter Gu Hongzhong. With artists from Beijing, Taiwan, and Hong Kong, our talented team presents you with high-definition images, captivating performances, and interactive scenes as an entertaining and educational journey!

Han Xizai was a prominent official during the short-lived Southern Tang dynasty (937-975 CE). Near the end of period, the country grew weaker each day. Rather than drown in the tumultuous political quagmire, Han Xizai chose to while away his time with extravagant indulgences and ignore current events. Li Yu, the last ruler of this waning dynasty, was suspicious of Han Xizai's lifestyle. Consequently, he dispatched the court painter Gu Hongzhong to covertly observe Han Xizai during one of his evening feasts. The artist was instructed to paint what he saw. So was born The Night Revels of Han Xizai!

● Original Art – High definition images display the painting’s marvelous detail!
● Exciting Content – Insightful explanations reveal the meaning behind the painting’s history, main characters, furnishings, collectors’ seals, and inscriptions!
● Innovative Design – Splendid interactive features present an exciting encounter with ancient art!
● Scholarly Inquiry – Expert commentary by researchers at the Palace Museum uncover the actual historical events surrounding the painting!
● Living History – Music and dance performances by the Taipei Han Tang Yuefu ensemble bring the painting to life!

About the Palace Museum
Established in 1925, the Palace Museum is located in the former imperial palace of the consecutive Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties. The awe-inspiring architectural complex of the Forbidden City and the vast holdings of paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, and antiquities in the imperial collection constitute one of the most prestigious museums in China and the world. In 1961, the State Council designated the former imperial residence as one of China's foremost-protected cultural heritage sites, and in 1987 the palace was included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.