Chinese Culture, Editor's Pick

A Glimpse of the Famous Horse Painter Xu Beihong’s Life (Part 2)

Born on July 19, 1895, in Yixing, Jiangsu, Xu Beihong began learning painting from his father at a young age. He later moved to Shanghai to work part-time while continuing his studies, eventually traveling to Japan and France to further cultivate his artistic abilities. The Louvre Museum in France had a profound impact on Xu ...

Mikel Davis

Horse painting by Chinese artist Xu Beihong.

A Glimpse of the Famous Horse Painter Xu Beihong’s Life (Part 1)

In the spring of 1937, as the flamboyant kapok flowers adorned the streets of Hong Kong, Professor Hui Tat-Seng, Director of the Chinese Department at the University of Hong Kong, carefully navigated the fallen blossoms, hurrying back home. As soon as Professor Hui entered his courtyard, he called out: “Beihong!” It turned out that the ...

Tatiana Denning

Self-portrait of Chinese artist Xu Beihong.

Stories of Ancient Healing Wisdom: Fighting Epidemics With Traditional Chinese Medicine

The world has been stricken with an epidemic so mysterious that even after three years of research using precise instruments, Western medicine has not fully understood its toxicity, nor has it developed the most accurate vaccine or prescription. Modern Chinese medicine, too, has failed to genuinely inherit the essence and intricacies contained in ancient traditional ...

Mikel Davis

Traditional Chinese herbal medicines.

Blossoming Heroines: The Story of Chunyu Tiying in Ancient China (Part 2)

Under the relatively quiet, unchanged starry sky, China, in comparison, has experienced many changes in dynasties, from the Spring and Autumn periods up to the Jin Dynasty. During the Jin Dynasty, a young girl (Chunyu Tiying) used her written talent, wisdom, courage, and bravery to save her father. In the night sky of history, Chunyu ...

Max Lu

Corporal punishment.

Legend of General Yang Yanzhao and the Ma Bao Spring

Renowned for his valiant stand against the Liao Dynasty, Yang Yanzhao is a well-known general in the annals of the Northern Song Dynasty, as chronicled in The History of the Song. Stationed on the frontier for over two decades, Yang commanded respect and fear among the Liao people. They believed him to be the Sixth ...

Tatiana Denning

Artist's illustration of the Legend of General Yang Yanzhao with his white horse and the discovery of Ma Bao Spring.

Tracing the Evolution of Beauty Standards in Ancient China

In the vast tapestry of human history, few cultures can rival the allure and richness of ancient China. This ancient civilization captivates the imagination, from its intricate philosophies to its majestic dynasties. Among China’s many facets, one fascinating aspect lies in the beauty standards of its women, which have been shaped by centuries of tradition, ...

Viena Abdon

The four great beauties of China.

The History and Cultural Significance of Chinese Fans

Imagine delicate handheld treasures crafted from silk, paper, bamboo, or feathers, with frames that gracefully unfold and collapse. Chinese fans have transcended social classes and backgrounds, weaving their way into the fabric of society. With every flick and flutter, these elegant creations whisper tales of tradition, aesthetics, and the enduring spirit of Chinese heritage. Skilled ...

Viena Abdon

A dancer holding a Chinese fan.

Ancient Technology: The Timekeeping Stone That Rings at Set Intervals

During the Wanli era of the Ming Dynasty (1573-1620), in Guixi (now Guixi City, Jiangxi Province), a villager was plowing his field when he discovered the remains of an ancient city wall. Out of curiosity, the man started digging. As he dug further, he finally uncovered a beautifully colored stone. He decided to bring the ...

Tatiana Denning

Was there a timekeeping stone?