The garden became a refined artistic expression in East Asia, reflecting the taste, sensibilities, and cultural cultivation of its owner. Learn about two such gardens in this lecture.
In Garden of the Palace of Tranquility and Longevity in Beijing’s Forbidden City, designed by the 18th century Qianlong Emperor, the visitor can wander up, around, and through giant rockeries, stopping into small buildings filled with artistry created by the finest craftsmen of the land. Trompe l’oeil murals, finely carved wood, bamboo, and lacquerwork all dazzle the eye.
In Kyoto, Japan, is the imperial villa known as Katsura Rikyu (literally Katsura Detached Palace), built in the early 17th century as a country retreat for an imperial prince. The complex includes the main residential building, extensive gardens surrounding it, and several separate teahouses scattered through the gardens, all built with exquisite attention to detail and reflecting the original owner’s interest in both tea culture and classical literature. Often considered the epitome of Japanese taste, Katsura became known around the world in the 20th century when it was praised by noted Western architects including Walter Gropius.
Nancy Berliner, Wu Tung Senior Curator Emerita of Chinese Art
Sarah Thompson, Terrie and Bradley Bloom Curator of Japanese Prints, Art of Asia, MFA
Wednesday, May 13, 2026