Once upon a time in the capital city

Author: Zhu Hui
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2005-05-01
Features: Mr. Zhu comes from a scholarly family and has profound expertise in literature and history. For the sake of scientific research, he thoroughly investigated the evolution of Ming Dynasty palaces in Beijing and Nanjing. The urban planning of Beijing and the preservation of Ming and Qing Dynasty palace gardens are complete. His writings are well-organized with substantial content, supplemented by historical documents and records, explaining the origins and developments. Published during that time, his works truly inspired readers' love for their country, serving not just as archaeological studies. – Shan Shiyuan
Zhu Hui (1907—1968), styled Bo Shang, was the eldest son of Zhu Xizu. In 1929, he was admitted as a graduate student at the University of Berlin in Germany and obtained a doctorate in philosophy. Upon returning to China in 1931, he served as a professor and department head at the Department of Economics of Central University. In addition to teaching, he conducted research on the famous scenic spots and historical sites of Nanjing, taking photographs and measurements himself. Based on this, he began compiling A Study of the Ancient Sites of Jinling (Nanjing), selecting 320 out of over 1,000 images and publishing A Photographic Collection of Famous Scenic Spots in Jinling (Nanjing), featuring one image with an accompanying study, creating a harmonious blend of text and visuals. He then wrote other specialized works such as A Study of the Six Dynasties Tombs in Jiankang (Nanjing). Later, he served as the Director of the Special Commodity Bureau of the Ministry of Finance and Deputy Director of the Customs Administration. After Japan's defeat in World War II, he served as a representative of the Chinese government to accept Japan's surrender in Vietnam. After the liberation, he held positions such as Professor and Department Head of the Department of Economics at Nanjing University, Deputy Director of the Cultural Bureau of Jiangsu Province, Deputy Director of the Jiangsu Provincial Committee for the Preservation of Cultural Relics, Deputy Director of the Jiangsu Provincial Committee for Library Affairs, and member of the Jiangsu Provincial Committee of the People's Political Consultative Conference (first, second, and third terms), as well as a council member of the Nanjing Historical Society. During this period, he wrote works such as Famous Scenic Spots in Nanjing, A Brief History of the Chinese People's Struggle to Develop Taiwan and Resist Invasion, Zheng He, and Xuanzang's Journey West. In 1957, he was wrongfully labeled a rightist for criticizing the demolition of Nanjing's city walls. During the Cultural Revolution, he suffered further persecution and passed away in July 1968, unjustly and with grievances. In December 1978, he was posthumously vindicated and his reputation restored. For a detailed list of his works, see the Bibliography section of this volume.
As Mr. Zhu's father said, the truth has finally proven the errors of that period in history. People have once again remembered him, and articles recalling or commemorating him have frequently appeared in newspapers and magazines. We thank those predecessors and peers who have always been concerned about the publication of Mr. Zhu's works. It was their care and advocacy that enabled his books to be republished or reissued in succession. For this new edition, titled Bygone Imperial Capital, we have compiled three of Mr. Zhu's works on Beijing's palaces and gardens.