If you haven’t experienced Rising Dragon yet, you don’t want to miss your chance. This absorbing exhibition is in its final week and will close on Sunday, Feb. 10. These extraordinary artworks span 5,000 years of China’s rich and diverse art history.
The exhibition is truly an experience. The lighting and colors create a real sense of place; as if you are entering a whole other world for a while. When you enter the galleries, a fantastic bronze dragon greets you. Some of the works at the beginning of the exhibition lack functionality. The pitcher has its obvious use, but the artist has made it in a way that it cannot serve its traditional purpose. It truly is a work of art.
My favorite display in Rising Dragon is <Tomb Miniatures for Use in the Afterworld. These miniature versions of real life objects were not toys. Most of the objects would serve everyday needs in the deceased’s afterlife such as: a stove, shoes, lamps and games. They even built little buildings to store valuables in and containers for clothing and cosmetics to ensure good personal hygiene.
The amazing craftsmanship and skill is evident throughout Rising Dragon. The exhibition seems to come full circle as a dragon bids you farewell. This dragon roof-tile is both elegant and fierce at the same time; the colors and movement are stunning. These works are a great representation of the Museum’s amazing collection of Chinese art. Rising Dragon will close at 5 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 10.