Whether they are engaging in joyous fun or learning about the world around them, children at play are delightful. Images of children appeared in Chinese paintings as early as the Six Dynasties period (222-589 CE). However, it was not until the Tang dynasty (618-907) that the subject of children at play began to emerge in its own right. The ability to represent children naturalistically was evident in the works of Song dynasty (960-1279) artists such as Su Hanchen. However, this ability decreased with the dominance of literati trends in the Yuan (1279-1368), when children were depicted more as small adults. Thereafter, the depiction of children was increasingly used as a representation of festive occasions and/or for auspicious symbolic purposes. 

Many Ming (1368-1644) and Qing dynasty (1644-1911) paintings of children at play reveal auspicious undertones, often serving to represent the wish for progeny and prosperity. Learn more about the endearing theme of children at play in Chinese visual culture and the coded messages vis-à-vis clothes, ornaments and toys in this sharing session conducted by Dr. Lim Chye Hong, Senior Curator (Digital) of National Heritage Board.

Conducted in English. Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. No registration required.