Past exhibitions

A rare opportunity to see some of the highest artistic achievements across 5000 years of Chinese history

The National Palace Museum, Taipei, holds one of the finest collections of Chinese art in the world. Accumulated by emperors over centuries, this collection was, for hundreds of years, accessible only to the imperial elite. It is now rarely seen outside Taipei.

Celebrating the rich heritage of Chinese civilisation through the ancient concept of tian ren he yi — unity or harmony between heaven, nature and humanity – Heaven and earth in Chinese art presents a series of 87 artworks including paintings, calligraphy, illustrated books, bronzes, ceramics, jade and wood carvings, dating from the Neolithic period to the 19th century.

This is the first time the collection has travelled to the southern hemisphere and it is unlikely to be seen in Australia again. The Art Gallery of NSW in Sydney is the exclusive venue.

The associated publication is available from the Gallery Shop and online.

Image: Qianlong 1736–95. Qing dynasty 1644–1911, Chen Zuzhang (active 18th century) Olive pit in the form of a boat 1737, National Palace Museum, Taipei. Image © Art Gallery of New South Wales

Note: This display includes works that are protected under the Protection of Cultural Objects on Loan Act 2013. More information

Read VisAsia message