From the heart of the Summer Palace, a tale of emperors and empresses unfolds. The Renshou Hall, also known as the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, stands as a testament to imperial power and the enduring quest for a long life. The hall’s name, Renshou Hall, is derived from the Analects of Confucius. It suggests that a benevolent emperor will enjoy a long reign. Built in 1750, the Renshou Hall served as the primary hall of the Summer Palace. It was initially called Qinzheng Hall, later renamed during Emperor Guangxu’s rule.
Within the Renshou Hall, a nine-dragon throne, crafted from red sandalwood, commands attention. Similar to the throne in the Forbidden City’s Hall of Supreme Harmony, this throne symbolizes ultimate authority. A red sandalwood screen stands behind it. The screen’s mirror displays 226 characters of the word “Longevity”, interspersed with 100 bats, representing happiness and long life. In Chinese, the word for “bat” sounds like the word for “happiness”. This clever wordplay reinforces the auspicious symbolism. Legend attributes the large “Longevity” character to Empress Dowager Cixi herself.
Outside the Renshou Hall, bronze phoenixes and dragons stand guard. These figures, with hollow abdomens, once served a unique purpose. Incense burned within them would release fragrant smoke during court proceedings, perfuming the air. Four distinctive stones, dark and perforated, represent the four seasons, adding a touch of natural symbolism to the imperial setting. Nearby, the Yannianjing, or Well of Prolonging Life, holds its own story. It is said that Empress Dowager Cixi found relief from sunstroke by drinking its water, leading her to bestow its auspicious name. The Renshou Hall witnessed key moments in Chinese history. It was here that the Qing Dynasty emperors conducted their official business while residing at the Summer Palace. Empress Dowager Cixi even imprisoned Emperor Guangxu in the nearby Yulan Hall after the failed Hundred Days’ Reform.