The ancient literati often found themselves at the crossroads between being an official or a recluse—each path reflecting a different attitude towards life and career. This exhibition showcases selected works from the Xubaizhai Collection, featuring the theme of life planning through the creations by different groups of scholarly officials and reclusive literati. By presenting the distinct paths of official careers and reclusive lives, the exhibition explores the diverse artistic styles and aspirations shaped by the artists’ life journeys and personal encounters. Against the backdrop of dynastic transition, it also sheds light on the dilemmas of twice-serving officials and loyalists of a fallen regime and their different art styles.