Tsim Sha Tsui Hong Kong Museum of Art｜Engaging Past Wisdom: Min Chiu Society at Sixty-five

Description

In Chinese bronze script, the character jian resembles the imagery of a figure bending over water, gazing at its reflection in a bronze basin. Over time, the word has taken on a metaphorical meaning—to reflect one’s character. An object that serves only a practical purpose, devoid of deeper meaning, remains merely an ordinary vessel. But when a ware is crafted with meticulous care—balancing utility with symbolic significance—it becomes an embodiment of the Dao that transcends verbal expression. The forms and decorations of ancient artefacts not only reflect our ancestors’ reverence for nature and their quest for cosmic harmony but also bear witness to cultural exchange. In their silhouettes, we discern the essence of the universe; in their patterns, the laws of creation. Each vessel is a cipher to antiquity’s intellectual world, and only by retracing this path can we decipher the past to illuminate the present. 

The distinguished members of the Min Chiu Society have long upheld the aspiration to “revere antiquity while diligently seeking knowledge”. Their practice transcends mere collecting, embracing instead a tradition of meticulous study and has gained international acclaim. In celebration of the 65th anniversary of the Society, this exhibition features over 400 sets of precious Chinese artefacts from their collections, including Chinese painting and calligraphy, ceramics, bronzes, lacquerware, jades, bamboo carvings, furniture and snuff bottles, for the enjoyment, appreciation and enlightenment for all.

Photo 1:

Hu ritual vessel of Zhou Zha

Mid-Western Zhou dynasty

Metal (bronze)

H 59 cm  W 29 cm  D 24 cm

Private collection

Photo 2:

Jar with phoenix and floral design in underglaze blue

Six-character mark of Xuande and of the period (1426 – 1435), Ming dynasty

Jingdezhen kiln, Jiangxi

H 13.5 cm  Dia 8.5 cm

Dawentang Collection