Introduction
The National Palace Museum (NPM) has published the National Palace Museum Monthly Series in seven different volumes, which contain a collection of articles that systematically and insightfully introduce NPM's artifacts, winning the acclaim of readers. In response to the high acclaim, the NPM presented the Sequel to the National Palace Museum Monthly. The first volume of the Sequel to the National Palace Museum Monthly, titled "Invisible Forms: A Review of Chinese Calligraphy in the Collection of the National Palace Museum" was released earlier this year. The second volume, titled "Essay on Ancient Devices," is now available, providing readers an opportunity to appreciate the beauty of NPM's antiquity collection.
Zhang Lin-sheng, ex-deputy director of the NPM and author of the "Essay on Ancient Devices," joined the NPM in 1969 and subsequently worked in the museum for more than three decades. She specializes in antiquities including snuff bottles, enamels, antique bronze replicas, and bronze with inlay. For this publication, Zhang diligently and carefully explains the knowledge and experience that she has acquired over decades of research using easy-to-understand language, allowing readers to appreciate the delicate qualities of various antiquities as well as enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of NPM's artifacts.
Antiquities not only serve the purpose of tools, but also represent the aesthetics, art, and craftsmanship of the time. In addition, they are important means by which future generations learn about the past. Words, decorations, shapes, and styles found in the antiquities are keys for museum researchers to unlock the hidden codes. By rigorously engaging in literature discussions and long-term studies, the researchers acquire complete knowledge of the national treasures.
The Sequel to the National Palace Museum Monthly continues to share with readers the extensive knowledge of the NPM. In addition, a systematic development approach will be adopted to promote the core values of museum education. The National Palace Museum Monthly Series will be employed in addition to NPM's special exhibitions to teach knowledge to NPM readers and visitors through words and physical artifact display, building a bridge between readers and NPM artifacts.