Ahhh, the infamous Marble Boat. It is lovely to look at, outfitted with paddlewheels, stained glass and mirrors, and is over 100 feet long. It is also a symbol of imperial extravagance to the people of Beijing. The story goes that the Dowager Empress Cixi appropriated funds desperately needed for repairing the Chinese Navy to make this marble boat for her private use. the people of China soon paid the price when the aggressive British and French forces, followed by Japan, outgunned the Royal Navy, and reduced the Summer Palace to ruins in the Second Opium War.