Emperor Yang of Sui Appreciating Lotus at Jiangdu
隋炀帝江都赏莲
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This scene depicts one episode from Emperor Yang of Sui’s southern progress to Jiangdu, adapted from Chapter Two of Romance of the Two Dynasties of Sui and Tang by Luo Guanzhong (c.1330–c.1400). Having travelled for months, the emperor arrives at Jiangdu and is captivated by its exceptional landscape and prosperity, deeming it even superior to the imperial capital of Chang’an. At the suggestion of his courtiers, he orders the extensive construction and refurbishment of palaces, terraces, and pleasure gardens. Grand structures such as the Wangyun Terrace are erected, surrounded by elaborately designed parks filled with rare flowers, exotic birds, and flowing waterways connected to Lake Tai, allowing boats to pass freely. The scale and extravagance of these works are immense, and any remonstrance is met with severe punishment, leaving officials fearful and silent.
Immersed in this luxurious setting, the emperor spends his days in constant revelry with Empress Xiao and his consorts. Spring is marked by banquets among blooming peonies and other flowers, accompanied by music, poetry, and admiration of the floral splendour. Gradually, he becomes wholly absorbed in sensual pleasures, neglecting state affairs. By summer, he turns to boating excursions at the waterside pavilions, where the famous ‘lotus appreciation’ takes place. On these occasions, palace women are ordered to enter the water to pick lotus flowers, singing and dancing in playful abandon while wine is served through lotus stems. The emperor and his empress watch with delight, applauding the spectacle.
This passage not only sets the stage for the ‘Emperor Yang Appreciating Lotus’ scene, but also highlights the opulence and moral decline of his reign, offering a pointed critique of indulgence and excess.
story description by Rachel Ma
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