China Mania: The Global Passion For Porcelain, 800-1900 CE

A Guided Tour of an Exhibition at Singapore’s Asian Civilisation Museum for SEACS Members:

For more than a thousand years, China provided the world with porcelain of the highest quality. Translucent, elegant, and durable, Chinese porcelain of various sizes and colors was eagerly sought – and just as eagerly copied and imitated. This exhibition examines the global demand for porcelain, not only in Europe and America, but also within Asia including Japan, South East Asia and the Islamic world.

If you thought globalization is a new concept, you will have to visit this exhibition to find out about the global reach of the Chinese porcelain!
Through 150 objects, including new acquisitions, China Mania examines how international trade and cultural exchange spread styles, forms, and manufacturing technologies throughout different regions. These exchanges dramatically altered the course of Asian art. The ceramics became prized heirlooms valued for their exotic origins, superior technology, and beauty.

About the Tour Leaders:

Lim Yah Chiew (Vice President SEACS), Pauline Ong and Vidya Schalk (members of SEACS and docents at the Asian Civilizations Museum) nd have been part of the China Mania Special Exhibitions Research Group.

3-4:30pm. October 4, 2014

Asian Civilisations Museum, Singapore