The gallery boasts a dazzling array of timepieces, many of which were gifts to the Qing emperors from abroad.

BBC: Beijing's once Forbidden City

Fourteen Ming and 10 Qing emperors called the Forbidden City home and the intrigue, scandal and drama that went on here has inspired countless films and books.

BBC: Beijing's once Forbidden City

Between 1420 and 1924, 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties lived here in near-total seclusion, rarely venturing out beyond the 10-metre-thick walls, and commanding an almost divine power over their subjects.

BBC: The perfect trip: China