Excelling the Work of Heaven: Personal Adornment from China

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"Excelling the Work of Heaven: Personal Adornment from China" features nearly 700 exquisite objects of personal adornment made of silver, jade, kingfisher feathers, ivory, precious stones, and coral from the San Francisco-based Shyn Collection. Most of the objects were made during late imperial China (1368-1911). The exhibition includes outstanding examples of archer's rings, head and hair ornaments, court necklaces, earrings, buttons, necklaces, bracelets, symbolic locks, personal talismans and amulets, needle cases and grooming kits that were made primarily for the imperial palace, court, and aristocracy.

Beautiful and sometimes enigmatic, these objects of adornment offer us a window into the lives of the people who made and used them. Indicators of gender, class, and wealth, and as protectors of newborns and court officials, they reveal a history of hidden symbols and motifs as well as the social structure and the high ambitions of the Chinese elite.

Evident in the minute detail and finish of these small works of art is the artisans' dedication to fine craftsmanship in metalwork, carving, featherwork, and ceramics. The artisans pushed their skills and materials to their limits in the quest for perfection.

Ticket Information
Gallery hours: Monday - Friday 10:30-4:00; Sunday 12:00-4:00; closed Saturday and Nov. 12 (Veterans Day) and Nov. 22 (Thanksgiving Day). Admission is free. Donations are appreciated. Parking fees may apply.

Event Sponsor
Department of Art and Art History, UH Manoa

More Information
Sharon Tasaka, 956-6888, gallery@hawaii.edu, http://www.hawaii.edu/artgallery/

Ongoing Events