WHAT? China’s Hidden Century 

WHERE? The British Museum, Sainsbury Exhibition Gallery, Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3DG

WHEN? Now until 8th October 

WHY GO? To hoover up knowledge.  A lot can happen over a 100 year period, and it did in China as this enthralling exhibition triumphantly records. Representing the ‘long’ 19th century up until the Last Emperor of China abdicated in 1912, it covers dynastic rule and domestic life, rebellions, the Opium War, and the gradual recognition of creativity across all forms of art.

Whether or not you know Yin from Yang, this richly informative exhibition brings multi-faceted Chinese culture to life with art and costumes from the viewpoint of humble farmers to fashionable rulers and military dictators to revered artists. 

It entertains with recorded re-enacted quotes by some of China’s stately rulers, most amusingly the imperious Empress Dowager Cixi who states that she admires Queen Victoria, but pronounces that she is an even better ruler of an even bigger Kingdom!  And, as it is further noted, she changed gowns 10 times a day, which must have left little time left to rule.

The culmination of a four year research programme with scholars from some 14 countries, this is the definitive exhibition of China, and not to be missed. 

IN THE KNOW  Check online for accompanying lectures which include a special performance of The Imperial Concubine Intoxicated, a Jingju opera classic. It combines music, poetry and lavish costumes and stars Kathy Lee Hall, renowned for her work as a promoter of Kunqu Opera in London. On 9th June, booking essential.