Exploring the World of the Great Kublai Khan

Model of a Stage with Five Actors
The Mongols are often characterized by the savagery of their warfare, but the Yuan era saw the refinement and crystallization of a number of Chinese artistic traditions that all linger to this day. This is especially true for theater — represented by this 13th century ceramic display. Over nine hundred plays were produced during the Yuan period, and its tales of fairy spirits and corrupt officials still circulate in current productions of Peking opera.

• Treasures from the Forbidden City