Guangdong Museum brings 18th-century Europe to life

‍Baroque melodies ripple through the air, and dancers twirl in elegant waltzes that evoke the grandeur of European palaces. Yet this isn't a scene from Venice or Vienna—it's unfolding in Guangzhou, where global culture is increasingly part of daily life.

On July 18, the Guangdong Museum launched its "Museum Night" summer series with the opening of the special exhibition "Crown of Elegance: Court Life and Art of Savoy in the 18th Century." For both locals and international visitors, it's a chance to experience European history and cross-cultural dialogue without leaving southern China.

A royal Italian experience in the heart of Guangdong

Running through October 19, the exhibition features 166 rare artifacts from the House of Savoy, many of which are being shown in China for the very first time. Divided into three thematic chapters—"The Noble City," "The Royal Splendor," and "East-West Dialogues"—the exhibition paints a vivid picture of 18th-century Italian aristocratic life.

From intricately embroidered court gowns and gilded furnishings to portraiture and ceremonial objects, visitors are immersed in the luxury, ritual, and artistry of one of Europe's most influential dynasties.

What makes this exhibition especially relevant to Guangdong is its connection to local history. A dedicated section highlights export artworks from the Guangdong Museum's own collection, exploring how Chinoiserie—the 18th-century European fascination with Chinese design—swept through Europe. Using Guangzhou's historic port as a focal point, the exhibition brings the maritime Silk Road to life, showing how southern China played a central role in global trade and aesthetic exchange.

A cultural tour after dark at the museum

The exhibition's debut was part of the museum's broader Museum Night series—an initiative that transforms the museum into an immersive evening destination blending art, history, and live performance.

Ms. Duan, a Guangzhou local, said this was her first time attending a Museum Night. "The evening hours are perfect for working families like ours," she said. "I brought my daughter, and we were both captivated by the music and the costumes—it felt like stepping into another world."

According to Deputy Director Ling Lili, the museum plans to host four evening events this summer, alongside five permanent exhibitions and three special ones. To accommodate growing interest, the museum has extended its opening hours through August 31: one extra hour daily and 3.5 extra hours every Friday.

Whether you're a traveler exploring Asia or a local looking for a meaningful night out, Guangdong Museum offers an unforgettable tour of history, beauty, and cross-cultural dialogue.

Source: South