Virtual Lecture Series | Hidden Meanings in Chinese Art

Bats, gourds, peaches, ribbons, and monkeys on horses: these images are frequently (and creatively) depicted in Chinese art — but what do they mean? Just as the Chinese language is an exquisite conduit for rebuses (visual puns) and symbolism, motifs that appear in Chinese art often represent wishes for good fortune. Join us as we decipher hidden messages of prosperity, health, and happiness found in traditional Chinese art using selected objects from the Asian Art Museum’s collection.

This one-hour virtual lecture by one of our community speaker docents is followed by a half-hour Q&A.

10:05 AM | Welcome
10:10 AM | Program
11:00 AM | Q&A

Members at all levels are invited to attend this virtual event.

After registering, please save the Zoom link that is sent in the order confirmation email for the day of the lecture. 

Need help registering? Email [email protected].

Image: Gourd-shaped vase decorated with red bats, 1736–1795. China; Jingdezhen, Jiangxi province. Qing dynasty (1644–1911), Reign of the Qianlong emperor (1736–1795). Porcelain with underglaze and overglaze polychrome decoration. Asian Art Museum, The Avery Brundage Collection, B60P46. Photograph © Asian Art Museum.