Inside the reproduction, the wall text explained how they guessed at the actual appearance of the structure, despite questions as to whether or not there was enough information available to make a reconstruction. However, this picture is taken from the far south end of the complex.  The gate in the picture is in the far south end of the complex, giving a perspective on the size of the compound.  The evidence makes scholars fairly certain that they know the exact location/dimensions of the compound.  While the reasons for moving out of Nara are a subject of scholarly dispute, it does seem that they had outgrown the complex by the move in 784.  This type of picture can be used in class to help illustrate the changing size and population of the people living in the imperial compound between 710 and 784.