Capital of Ten Dynasties

An Artistic Journey Through Nanjing's Rich History

Nanjing, a city steeped in history, has witnessed the rise and fall of ten dynasties, each leaving its mark on the city's landscape. Inspired by this fascinating aspect, renowned designer Lu Jiadong has created a masterpiece that captures the essence of Nanjing's historical significance. Like a thousand-layer cake, each dynasty built upon the foundation of the previous one, shaping the city's rich heritage. Lu Jiadong's creation, resembling a Chinese classical scroll painting, serves as a visual journey through time.

Measuring 320 x 2030mm, this artwork is a testament to the unique history of Nanjing. Through meticulous research and a two-month field study, Lu Jiadong collated visual information and locations of each historical site in Nanjing. These were then distilled into concise and modern visual symbols, allowing the audience to intuitively access information and ignite their curiosity.

The artwork, created using Adobe Illustrator and printed onto paper, serves as both an artistic masterpiece and an informative infographic. It not only showcases the artistic style of classical Chinese painting but also provides historical information based on space and time. As viewers immerse themselves in the artwork, they gain a deeper understanding of Nanjing's history and its profound impact on the city's present-day identity.

Lu Jiadong's creation, exhibited at the World Historical & Cultural Cities Expo 2018, received widespread acclaim for its innovative approach to storytelling. By seamlessly blending art, design, and historical research, Lu Jiadong has created a work that not only captivates the audience but also educates and inspires.

Recognizing its exceptional creativity and resourcefulness, Lu Jiadong's "Capital of Ten Dynasties" was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Graphics, Illustration, and Visual Communication Design category in 2021. This prestigious accolade celebrates designs that contribute to quality of life improvements and make the world a better place. Lu Jiadong's artwork is a testament to the power of design in preserving and showcasing the rich history of a city.