The year 1876 marked a pivotal moment in world history. Following the defeat by the Eight-Nation Alliance, the Qing Dynasty was compelled to open its ports and establish embassies. Concurrently, the Qing Dynasty set up its first embassy in Britain. Zhu Chengde, the inaugural ambassador, witnessed firsthand China's backwardness and ignorance. In a bold move, he cut off his braid and began to learn from the West. However, this act made him a target of public criticism and he was deemed a traitor in China. Yet, without his foresight, the Chinese might still be wearing braids today.

To honor Zhu Chengde and help restore his reputation, we have meticulously crafted a commemorative violin using the wood from China’s first embassy in Beihai, Guangxi. May the beautiful music of this violin serve as an everlasting tribute to the progress and transcendence of the Chinese people.