The 471st session of the “Hou Wailu Academic Lectures” and the 27th session of the “An-Lai Lecture Series” was held on the morning of November 14, 2025. Professor MA Qinglin, Distinguished Professor at Beijing University of Chemical Technology and Adjunct Distinguished Professor at Shandong University and the University of Science and Technology Beijing, was invited to deliver an academic lecture titled “Identification and Conservation Practice of Organic Materials in Cultural Heritage from the Tang to the Ming–Qing Dynasties.” The lecture was chaired by Professor YANG Lu, Dean of NWU–Salento School of Cultural Heritage and Arts.

In his lecture, Professor Ma used vivid case studies to outline the research trajectory of organic materials excavated from the Tang to the Ming–Qing dynasties. Covering topics such as lacquerware remains, the evolution of aromatic substances, and relic-offering traditions, he followed a clear analytical path from sample collection to research conclusions. Integrating cutting-edge analytical technologies with historical evidence, he demonstrated how organic chemistry in cultural artifacts can serve as a key to understanding ancient daily life. He further expanded the discussion by connecting his research on Penglai Water City to topics such as organic additives in architectural painting and the application of PEG in ancient ship conservation. He explained both the physicochemical properties of these organic materials and their identification and conservation practices.

After the lecture, Professor Ma engaged in an interactive session with students and faculty, providing detailed responses to various questions.