Duobaoge: Chinese Emperor’s Curio Boxes

Dr. Ching-Ling Wang, Curator of Chinese art, Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam

A duobaoge is a traditional Chinese display cabinet designed to hold and showcase a collection of precious objects such as jade carvings, porcelains, curios, and scholarly items. Originating during the Qing dynasty (1644–1912), the duobaoge embodies both the aesthetic and intellectual pursuits of the elite.
More than a piece of furniture, the duobaoge represents a microcosm of the collector’s world, blending order, elegance, and curiosity. It parallels the European Kunstkammer (cabinet of curiosities) and reflects the refined taste, wealth, and intellectual culture of Qing imperial and literati circles. This talk focuses on the design of the duobaoge, its transcultural context and its historical and cultural significance.

This talk also wants to highlight to the ongoing exhibition in the National Museum in Prague of 100 treasures of the National Palace Museum in Taipei from September through December 2025. 
https://www.nm.cz/en/program/exhibitions/100-treasures-100-stories