An exhibited Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) rockery stone, named "cloud-embracing", reveals a favorite element in Chinese gardens; a bronze statuette Neptune with a Dolphin stands a few meters away. Once set atop a fountain in a villa of Rome, the statuette was made after Lorenzo Bernini's model and also provides an intriguing glimpse of a classical Italian garden.

"This initiative aims to integrate elements of literature, drama and historical allusions with landscape design, anchoring itself in Chinese classical gardens while embracing global garden cultures," says Wang Yuegong, deputy director of the Palace Museum.

"It initiates a dialogue that showcases the artistic splendor of Eastern and Western horticultural traditions, ultimately unveiling the humanistic philosophies embedded within these living masterpieces."

Through the artworks, the metaphysical thinking surrounding gardens may still resonate among modern viewers.