The British Museum's spectacular exhibition of Chinese art and archaeology focuses on the early years of the best-known imperial dynasty, the Ming, which ruled from 1368-1644. In the fifty years from about 1400-1450 the Chinese economy developed and expanded, the population increased, and the country reached beyond its borders to trade with and in some cases conquer territories far beyond its geographical boundaries. The culture of the powerful Ming court also reached new heights: luxury goods, colourful paintings, calligraphy, music, and literature were created for palace consumption and decoration. This splendour is well represented in the exhibition. Some of the precious objects and artworks have not been seen before outside China; many others are being displayed together for the first time.
展开▼
