The 3rd GUIA lecture of the 2023-2024 academic year, organized by the Institute of Advanced Studies in Humanities and Social Sciences (IAS) was successfully held on March 1st at the Wu Yee Sun Library Lecture Hall. The lecture titled as”The Fengtoucong from Yu Tian: The Light and Shade of the Tribute System”, featured Professor Luo Xin from Peking University as the speaker and Professor Wang Di from the University of Macau as the host. The event received enthusiastic participation from a diverse audience comprising students and faculty members who actively engaged in the discussion.

During the lecture, Professor Luo Xin delved into a comprehensive exploration of the ancient Chinese tribute system. He began with a captivating story—the lion presented to Emperor Kangxi—as a point of entry to illustrate the arduous journey and challenges faced by two lions transported all the way from Africa to the Qing Dynasty and the attitudes of Emperor Kangxi and those around him towards the lions to explore the political, military, and economic connections between the tribute system and China, as well as its neighboring countries. By employing the renowned “Five Horses Painting” as a case study, Professor Luo shed light on the nuanced relationships that existed between the Song Dynasty and the countries in the Western Regions. Through the elaboration of the “Dongfangzhi”, he provided detailed accounts of the rumors and speculations about China from its neighboring countries. Ultimately, Professor Luo underscored the significance of the tribute system for both the central dynasty and its neighboring nations, while also highlighting the inherent challenges and contradictions within this mutually beneficial relationship, including the ambiguous distinction between “vassal states” and “tribute states.”

The IAS aims to contribute to Macau society by providing more interdisciplinary academic lectures with an international perspective. This lecture attracted more than 300 students and faculty members who participated both online and on site. The IAS will continue to organize high-quality academic events, providing more opportunities to deepen academic exchanges and broaden knowledge horizons.