Hidden Meanings: Symbolism in Chinese Art
October 7–December 31, 2006
"...opens the communicative dimension of the Chinese arts as few sources have before." – San Francisco Chronicle
Symbolism abounds in the decorative arts of China, rendering clothing, personal adornment, and household objects rich with meaning. A gourd-shaped vase decorated with bats is more than just ornamental: it is a promising omen, as the gourd symbolizes fertility by virtue of its numerous seeds, and the imagery of bats implies the sentiment "blessings vast as the sky." By surrounding themselves with such symbols, many Chinese believed that wishes would be fulfilled.
This exhibition unlocks the mysteries of these "hidden meanings” with more than 140 porcelains, jades, and textiles from the museum's acclaimed Avery Brundage Collection, all of which represent wishes for fertility, a harmonious marriage, wealth and prosperity, long life, and more.
Hidden Meanings is organized into eight sections, seven of which are governed by the three Star Gods: Fu, Lu, and Shou. Fu (“blessings” or “happiness”) governs blessings, marriage, and children. Lu (literally, “official salary”) governs passing exams, gaining official rank, and obtaining wealth. Shou governs longevity. The exhibition concludes with a display of objects related to peace and wish granting.
Hidden Meanings: Symbolism in Chinese Art was organized by the Asian Art Museum. It was made possible by generous support from Mrs. Frances Bushell, E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation; the Bei Shan Tang Foundation; Mrs. Elsie R. Carr; Fred M. and Nancy Livingston Levin, The Shenson Foundation; a gift in memory of Dr. K. S. Lo; and the Jade Circle, celebrating ten years of philanthropy. Photography by, but not limited to, Kaz Tsuruta and Caroline Kopp.
