One of the most influential figures in Chinese history: a sculpture of Li Hongzhang

Guests of the National Centre RUSSIA can visit the exposition of young artists from BRICS countries until February 2. The gallery features more than 250 works, including paintings, sculptures, art installations, photographs, and animated pieces.

Building a happy future is impossible without considering the lessons of the past. This is why writers and artists continue to draw inspiration from the history of their own countries and the world. Zhang Zhe, a Chinese student at the Ilya Repin St. Petersburg Academy of Arts, turned to the history of the Qing Empire at the end of the XIX century. The focus of his creative exploration became Li Hongzhang, one of the most influential yet controversial officials of the Qing Dynasty.

Li Hongzhang first made a name for himself during the suppression of the Taiping Rebellion and was appointed Governor of Jiangsu and Anhui Provinces in 1867. In 1868, he crushed the Nian Rebellion, for which he was honored with the Yellow Jacket, a peacock feather, and the title of Tutor to the Heir Apparent.

In the final decades of the XIX century, Li Hongzhang almost single-handedly directed China’s foreign policy. He signed the Treaty of Shimonoseki with Japan (1895) and the Sino-Russian Alliance Treaty (1896). Interestingly, the Tea House on Myasnitskaya Street in Moscow was decorated in Chinese style in preparation for his visit to Russia.

The sculptor depicted Li Hongzhang in his later years, when the statesman was suffering from a severe illness. His appearance reflects both his high status and a hint of doubt, as well as wisdom intertwined with vulnerability.