Exhibition: August 6, 2009 - April 18, 2010

Reception: August 6, 2009 (6-9pm, during Arts Walk)

 

About the Exhibit:

Until 1911, the country of China was ruled by an Emperor.  China's complex society included a social order with an identified position for everyone.  Skilled artists and craftsmen created elaborate furnishings and clothing for the Emperor's family and other high-ranking members of society.

 

Chinese objects reflected the social system with symbols and motifs restricted to individuals of different ranks.  Imaginary creatures including the dragon and phoenix and animals such as deer, ducks, butterflies and bats appeared with plants, clouds and mountains on furniture, decorative objects and clothing.

 

China expanded its trade in the 17th century and Chinese objects entered the European market as luxury items and were acquired by royalty, nobility and the wealthy.  By the 18th century, Americans living on the east coast had been introduced to Chinese furnishings and clothing and by the 19th century Riverside residents were using them in their homes and on special occasions.  This exhibition of Chinese treasures from the Riverside Metropolitan Museum and Edward-Dean Museum collections feature the rich heritage of the arts and culture of China's Emperors.

 

Regular Museum Hours:
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday 9am-5pm
Thursday 9am-9pm
Saturday 10am-5pm
Sunday 11am-5pm
Admission is free for all.