Still, the show corrects misperceptions about Qianlong and uses the vase as an example of inclusiveness.

Choosing the right performer for each item is itself a fine art, Yu said. They are called the "guardians of the relics".

Duan Yihong, an actor known for his portrayals of subtle emotion, was chosen to play a sword spirit who has a long monologue. The sword belonged to Goujian, a king in the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC), who suffered humiliation before defeating his adversary.

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