24.7 cm (length) × 11.2 cm (width) × 0.7 cm (thickness)
The Jade Album of Imperial Manual Script on Royal Lecture, inscribed in Emperor Qianlong’s (reigned 1735–1796) own calligraphy, records his interpretation of a passage from the Classic of Poetry: “‘How much to be rejoiced in are these princes, the parents of the people!’ When a prince loves what the people love, and hates what the people hate, then is he what is called the parent of the people.”
In July 1785, while residing at the Chengde Summer Resort during an official tour, Emperor Qianlong compiled his long-held reflections on the classics, previously shared with his ministers. He found his commentary on this passage, written in 1742, particularly sincere in expressing the idea of governing with a parental heart, fostering unity between rulers and their people. The emperor reflected on his lifelong practice of constantly examining himself from the perspective of a noble ruler, cultivating empathy, and ensuring harmonious relationships between himself and others. He also emphasized that all officials holding key positions in court, as well as those bearing responsibilities toward the people and the nation, must always remember that “care” was the foundation of governance.
In closing, Emperor Qianlong noted an error made during a previous transcription—where the phrase “initially, I did not consider myself fully capable of fulfilling the way of a parent” mistakenly replaced “parent” with “noble ruler.” This error was perpetuated in subsequent printed editions without correction. Therefore, he made a formal revision and had a new volume transcribed. He also ordered the article to be printed and distributed to officials across the provinces, ensuring that it was placed in visible locations as a constant reminder to uphold sincerity and integrity. This reflects Emperor Qianlong’s practice of self-reflection through the classics, his meticulous approach to governance, and his leadership style of encouraging his ministers to govern with moral responsibility.