This exhibition is hosted by the Tsinghua University Art Museum, with great support from the Xiang Gang Museum (Han Mo Xuan), the Museum of the Sino-Japanese War, and the Weihai Museum. It features over 170 rare pieces of work from pivotal figures of the period of the First Sino-Japanese War (1894–1895), using their personal writings as a medium to deeply explore the historical context and significance of the war.The exhibition is structured into four sections: “Turmoil in the Court”, “Storm to the Military”, “Awakening of the People”, and “Warnings for the Future”. Centered on the calligraphy of figures such as Li Hongzhang, Ding Ruchang, and Zhang Jian, it highlights the debates and dilemmas within the late Qing political center, the heroic struggles of Qing military officers and soldiers, and the reformist awakening spurred by the war's defeat. Additionally, by presenting writings from key figures of the Japanese invading forces, the exhibition unveils the expansionist ambitions of Japanese imperialists, serving as poignant reminders of this historical event and setback. And it is with sober and honest reflection that we may draw upon those lessons.The outcome of the war marked the collapse of the traditional geopolitical order in East Asia. This exhibition seeks to revisit the far-reaching impact of the war through the unique perspective of these manuscripts, inspiring viewers to reexamine the historical significance of the war, draw strength from its lessons, uphold the spirit of resilience, and chart a brighter course for the future.
