VIRGINIA MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS 2800 Grove Avenue Richmond, Virginia 23231-2466 tel: (804) 367-0844; fax 804/367-9393 e-mail: webmaster@vmfa.state.va.us internet: dit1.state.va.us/vmfa/index.html
		Worlds of Wonder and Desire: Indian Paintings from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts November 20, 2001 - February 24, 2002
			This exhibition, which traces the evolution of Indian painting from the 12th to the early 20th century, showcases the museumıs rich holdings of South Asian paintings. The opaque watercolors on palm leaf, paper, ivory and cloth featured in this show depict a variety of traditional themes: the gods and myths of Indiaıs great religions; the pleasures, pastimes and personalities of the subcontinentıs royal courts; and poems celebrating love, the seasons of the year, and musical modes. Some of these paintings were commissioned by kings, noblemen or wealthy religious institutions; others, by well-to-do merchants. This is the first comprehensive exhibition of this remarkable collection.
		•Chinese Gallery Ongoing
			The new installation presents a wide range of artworks that date from the 3rd millennium B.C. through the 19th century A.D. Incorporating traditional Chinese architectural elements and decorative motifs, the new gallery suggests a cultural context for the artworks. Significant pieces not on view since the 1980s are displayed together with ancient bronze vessels, refined jades, monumental Buddhist sculpture, exquisite lacquerwares and elegant blanc de chine porcelain. Also on view for the first time are major acquisitions made in the last year, including a set of four Han dynasty painted pottery figures and a green-glazed funerary jar with molded decoration.
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