For Jean-Paul Mulot, a senior official of Hauts-de-France, the northernmost region of France, his first visit to the Prince Kung's Palace Museum in Beijing left a lasting impression.
Walking through the serene courtyards, admiring the intricate architecture, and feeling the calmness of the space, Mulot could not help but be struck by the harmony between the cultural and natural elements that defined the space.
"It reminded me of the gardens I grew up learning about, the way nature and design come together to create something beautiful and peaceful," Mulot reflected during the signing of the cooperation agreement earlier this month between the Prince Kung's Palace Museum and Chateau de Chantilly in the town of Chantilly in the French region of Picardy, a historical estate known for its rich history, remarkable architecture, extensive gardens, and valuable art collection.
The partnership aims to foster deeper dialogue between the two cultural institutions, both of which have preserved centuries of history, art and culture.
Feng Naien, curator of the Prince Kung's Palace Museum, emphasizes that this agreement is a key outcome of the China-France Year of Culture and Tourism, showcasing the mutual respect and recognition of both nations' civilizations.
"This collaboration will not only provide richer cultural experiences for people in both China and France, but also breathe new life into the mutual appreciation of world civilizations," Feng says.
Next year, coinciding with the Year of the Horse in China, the two institutions will host exhibitions and cultural exchange activities focused on themes such as equestrian culture, garden arts and historical figures, he adds.
The partnership will also focus on cultural heritage protection, product digitization, academic research, and the promotion of cultural tourism, further exploring paths for the innovation and transmission of civilization.
Used to be the residence of several Qing Dynasty aristocrats and imperial kinsmen, the Prince Kung's Palace Museum, one of Beijing's best-preserved Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) architectural complexes, focuses on research related to the history and culture of multiple ethnicities within the Qing Dynasty framework.
In recent years, the museum has actively promoted Chinese culture around the world, organizing exhibitions in various countries, including Latvia, France, Singapore, the United States and Switzerland.
Notably, its fashion shows and cultural events, including those held in Paris in 2023 and 2024, have helped foster cross-cultural dialogue and laid the groundwork for collaboration with Chateau de Chantilly, according to Feng.
Anne Miller, general manager of Chateau de Chantilly, says she is excited about the new partnership, emphasizing the shared commitment of both institutions to preserving cultural heritage.
She highlights that the collaboration will strengthen Sino-French relations, not only in cultural exchange but also in tourism communication.
Miller says that both institutions share a rich cultural and royal heritage, with Chateau de Chantilly's magnificent gardens and the preservation of Prince Kung's Palace offering a common foundation for the partnership.
"Our shared interest in garden arts and equestrian culture is a key focus of our future projects," she says, expressing enthusiasm for the opportunities ahead.
Mulot also stressed the importance of this partnership, underscoring the role of cultural heritage in fostering long-term collaboration between the two countries.
"Chateau de Chantilly is a true treasure for the Hauts-de-France region," he says. "It reflects the fusion of Chinese landscaping wisdom and French art, showcasing the deep cultural connections between our two nations."
Mulot also spoke of his personal connection to gardens, adding how an 18th-century book given to him by his grandfather inspired his appreciation of global garden art.
He says that the blending of Chinese and French culture with nature provides a unique opportunity for collaboration.
"As we continue our cooperation in culture, trade and garden arts, we aim to create a bridge for future partnerships in technology and commerce, strengthening mutual understanding," he says.
In his view, the partnership will increase visitor exchanges, with French tourists visiting China to explore the tranquil beauty of Prince Kung's Palace Museum, and Chinese visitors to Chateau de Chantilly to experience the blending of Eastern and Western garden traditions.
Chateau de Chantilly, known for its rich history and magnificent gardens, has long served as the residence of French royalty. The estate has demonstrated outstanding cross-cultural cooperation, particularly in preserving equestrian culture and promoting garden arts.
Representatives from both sides agree that this partnership marks a new phase in Sino-French cultural exchange, with both institutions committed to bridging historical and cultural gaps and continuing their efforts in fostering global collaboration.
