Art of Asia

ABOUT THE INSTALLATIONS

Discover three new installations that showcase historical and contemporary works from the Museum’s collections of Chinese and Japanese art.

Craft/Art Continuum

A showcase of intricate baskets from Japan illustrating the continuum between craft objects and fine art offers an orientation to the larger Arts of Asia Gallery. Made entirely from bamboo, the baskets show an evolution from vessels for ikebana flower arrangements to contemporary abstract sculpture.

Scrolls of Nature and Imagination: Literati Art from China and Japan

Header: Censer in the form of a seated qilin, Ming dynasty, first half of 17th century, China (detail). Bronze. Museum purchase, Robert H. Clague collection. Photo: Ken Howie

Round “Six Poets” Suzuribako, mid 19th century, Japan. Wood, lacquer, gilding, silver, stone. Gift of C. L. Pecchenino and Patty M. Pecchenino

This immersive installation features art objects and stylized spaces that explore the world of gentleman scholars from China and Japan. Featured works include elegant scrolls of landscapes, flowers, and calligraphy, with installations of a Chinese scholar’s desk, with groupings of Japanese lacquer writing boxes, tea pots and bowls, cricket cages, and other assorted media that provide a view into the refined elegance of the literati lifestyle.

Phoenix and Dragon: Blessings in Bronze from China

Circular Covered Box with Phoenix and Dragon Decor, Qing dynasty, Qianlong Period, second half 18th century, China. Bronze. Museum purchase, Robert H. Clague collection

Discover how mythical creatures and timeless designs convey blessings of longevity and good fortune through Chinese bronze artworks from the 12th through the 21st century. This installation showcases ceremonial objects and sculptures reflecting a multitude of forms from archaeological relics to whimsical hybrid creatures.