Celebrity Media Editor’s Note: Stepping into the Diplomatic Lounge on the second floor of the United Nations Headquarters in New York, the first thing people see is a massive Chinese tapestry of the Great Wall covering an entire wall. It was a gift from the Chinese government to the United Nations in 1974, with its grand composition displaying the majestic view of the winding Great Wall. The tapestry is not only a masterpiece of art but also symbolizes the resilience and guardianship of Chinese civilization, echoing the UN’s mission to safeguard world peace.

 

This Great Wall tapestry sets a solemn and profound tone for the lounge. Diplomats, while resting or conversing here, are often captivated by its awe-inspiring presence, sparking dialogues that bridge cultures and histories. It is not only an object of artistic appreciation but also an opportunity for civilizational exchange.

Looking around the entire second floor, from the lounge to the connected corridor, the space resembles a “living museum.” On both sides of the walls are artworks donated by countries from around the world: African wood carvings, European oil paintings, Latin American murals, Asian calligraphy and ink paintings—each carrying a unique cultural imprint. These works, together with the Great Wall tapestry, create a stage for diverse civilizations.

The corridor also displays images and historical records that capture significant UN moments: Security Council meetings during the Cold War, snapshots of peacekeeping operations… making this not just a space for work and rest, but a three-dimensional historical scroll.

It is in such an atmosphere that the image of the UN as a “home of the world” takes form. The juxtaposition of the Great Wall tapestry and diverse artworks reminds us that only through dialogue, understanding, and cooperation can the international community build a Great Wall that safeguards peace together.