Renowned Hong Kong comic artist Li Chi Tak has been creating comics for over forty years and is known for his intensely detailed linework and striking compositions, earning him a warm reception from readers both locally and overseas. Among his vast body of work, the comic The Assassination of Emperor Qin (刺秦), published in 1993, is undoubtedly one of his most significant and representative pieces. This classic work, adapted from the famous historical event “Jing Ke’s Assassination Attempt on the Qin Emperor”, is not only often regarded by readers and critics as the pinnacle of Li’s career but also shook the entire Asian comic scene upon its release, becoming a hallmark of its era. What makes this work most distinctive is its complete subversion of Li’s previous artistic direction — he boldly reduced his trademark dense hatched lines and, for the first time, unleashed a wild, unrestrained brushstroke reminiscent of Chinese ink wash painting.
After 33 years, a powerful return — over 30 original manuscript artworks of The Assassination of Emperor Qin unveiled for the first time
The universe of The Assassination of Emperor Qin has finally descended once again, 33 years after its original release. Following his successful solo exhibition “In the Path” at the Gallery by the Harbour in 2023, Li Chi Tak has once again raised the bar by presenting a brand new solo exhibition entitled “Return to the Assassination Universe” (二度刺秦宇宙) at the same venue. The exhibition is held from 27 May to 21 June 2026 at the Gallery by the Harbour, featuring over 30 of Li’s masterpiece works centred around the theme of The Assassination of Emperor Qin.
Among these precious exhibits are 24 brand new works created using ink and watercolour, two manuscript pieces re-inked over old pencil drafts, and six precious manuscripts completed as early as 1992 but never used when The Assassination of Emperor Qin was originally published. These manuscripts, having been dust-covered for over 30 years, are making their public debut — an unmissable opportunity for fans.
The Alternative Narrative of The Assassination of Emperor Qin and the Bonds of Brotherhood
Regarding the famous historical event “Jing Ke’s Assassination Attempt on the Qin Emperor”, there have been numerous adaptations over the years. However, the comic The Assassination of Emperor Qin, created by Li Chi Tak in 1993, takes a different path, telling a little-known story that takes place before Jing Ke officially sets out to assassinate the Qin Emperor.
In order to increase the chances of success, the State of Yan assembled a group of advance assassins, including Bai Ya, Xie Wu, Fang Shi, and Xu Fu — a band of unconventional martial artists from the underworld. On the surface, their mission was to search for maps and infiltrate secret passages to assassinate the Qin Emperor, but their true purpose was to neutralise Xiang Yang, the Qin Emperor’s foremost swordsman. These loyal warriors, each possessing unique skills, eventually develop a deep bond of unwavering loyalty and brotherhood, willing to live and die together as they fight side by side.
The Assassination of Emperor Qin Reprint Edition Debuts: Exhibition-Exclusive Covers Available Only at the Gallery
At the exhibition, visitors can purchase the special collector’s edition cover of the reprinted The Assassination of Emperor Qin. Unlike the original 1990s version, this reprint edition presents the book in a larger format. The 288-page content has not only been comprehensively organised and edited but also includes over ten newly illustrated colour artworks created by Li Chi Tak. Furthermore, this reprint edition features four exquisite covers, three of which are limited editions available exclusively at the Gallery by the Harbour — making it an essential choice for collectors.
Exclusive Merchandise Launches Simultaneously — Limited Edition Bai Ya Sculpture, Only Five in the World
In addition to the reprinted comic, the exhibition also offers a wide variety of merchandise simultaneously, including magnetic light boxes, acrylic standees, door hangers, badges, T-shirts, plastic standees, collector cards, and limited edition bookplates, allowing visitors to bring the world of The Assassination of Emperor Qin home with them.
Particularly worth mentioning is that on-site pre-orders is available for the limited edition sculpture of Bai Ya, a key character from The Assassination of Emperor Qin. The two different sized sculptures both feature exclusive colour schemes created specifically for this exhibition. The larger version is limited to only five pieces worldwide, available while stocks last — destined to become the ultimate treasure that collectors will rush to acquire.
Li Chi Tak’s Solo Exhibition “Return to the Assassination Universe”@Harbour City
Date: 27 May – 21 June 2026
Time: 11am – 9pm
Venue: Gallery by the Harbour (Shop 207, Level 2, Ocean Centre, Harbour City)
