Core Insights - The exhibition "Observing the World: The Ming Dynasty's Global Influence" at the Nanjing Museum showcases over 400 precious artifacts from more than 30 cultural institutions, highlighting the Ming Dynasty's interactions with foreign civilizations through five thematic sections [10][11][12]. Group 1: Historical Context - The Ming Dynasty, established in 1368 by Zhu Yuanzhang, implemented significant institutional reforms that influenced future generations, including a foreign policy centered on peaceful coexistence and tribute trade [11][12]. - The exhibition outlines the political, economic, and diplomatic systems of the Ming Dynasty, featuring artifacts such as the Ming Hongwu red-glazed vase and paintings depicting gatherings of scholars [11][12]. Group 2: Maritime Trade and Globalization - Zheng He's voyages from 1405 to 1433 significantly expanded China's influence, establishing trade routes and cultural exchanges that contributed to early globalization [13][14]. - The exhibition includes artifacts like blue and white porcelain, which reflect the maritime activities and trade during Zheng He's expeditions, showcasing the cultural and economic exchanges that occurred [13][14]. Group 3: Cultural Exchange - The exhibition highlights the cultural exchanges between China and the West, featuring portraits of Matteo Ricci and Xu Guangqi, who collaborated on scientific and mathematical translations, fostering knowledge transfer [16][17]. - The first colored Chinese world map, created by Ricci and Li Zhi, redefined the representation of global geography by placing China at the center, marking a significant moment in cartography [17]. Group 4: Artistic Influence - The exhibition presents artworks that illustrate the blending of Eastern and Western artistic styles, such as the "Wooden Beauty" oil painting and the "Wild Villa and Forest" screen, showcasing the influence of Western techniques on Chinese art [17][18]. - The display of Ming Dynasty artifacts, including cloisonné and lacquerware, reflects a synthesis of local and foreign artistic traditions, emphasizing the era's cultural openness [18].