Introduction
History is full of “unheard voices”—individuals who, though scarcely mentioned in official record, lived rich lives and shaped their times in unique ways. In the male-dominated societies of the past, women’s stories often went untold. Yet, how did women carve out their place in history? What legacies did they leave behind? This exhibition delves into women’s history through the lens of Qing dynasty gungju, or princesses, figures who continue to captivate us in literature and drama.
Drawing primarily from the National Palace Museum collection of Qing imperial archives, we explore the status, relationships, and life stories of these royal women, examining their roles and significance within the political landscape of the Qing Empire. Through these various historical documents, we aim to uncover the voices and experiences of those who lived beyond the margins of mainstream narrative, revealing their historical presence and exploring their relevance to the present day.