Take a glimpse of Qing dynasty China through the lensaoji

Beginning in 1709, the Qing emperor Kangxi began the construction of Yuan Ming Yuan, or the Garden of Perfect Brightness, a garden retreat modeled on the grand palaces, gardens, and fountains of Europe. Chinese architects and artisans participated in the construction of the building of Yuan Ming Yuan, emulating European art and design. From 1723 until its destruction in 1860, a succession of emperors used Yuan Ming Yuan as their principal residence. Much of Yuan Ming Yuan was destroyed in the Second Opium War. Child took this very important photograph of Fountain Gate in Yuan Ming Yuan before it was further destroyed in the Boxer War.[Photo provided by Stephan Loewentheil Historical Photography of China Collection]