The Qianlong Emperor's Southern Inspection Tour, Scroll Six: Entering Suzhou along the Grand Canal 1770

This handscroll, created by Xu Yang in 1770, is one of six depicting the Qianlong Emperor's journey along the Grand Canal. This particular scroll depicts the arrival of the emperor in Suzhou. Xu Yang's detailed depiction of the bustling scene, complete with numerous boats, the emperor's ornate barge, and the lively surrounding landscape, is a testament to the impressive scale of the event and the artist's skill in capturing such a grand occasion. The scroll was commissioned by the Qianlong Emperor as a historical record and a testament to his reign. This work is a remarkable example of Qing dynasty court painting and offers viewers insight into the opulence and grandeur of the emperor's life.