16 June - 7 October 2007

The University Museum and Art Gallery of The University of Hong Kong and the Museum of East Asian Art, Bath (UK) are delighted to present an exhibition of "Chinese Ceramics and the Maritime Trade Pre-1700" in partnership with the British Council.

The sea trade of ancient China has prospered since the seventh century. Maritime trade routes were important in linking the East and the West, and ports such as Guangzhou in the south and Quanzhou in the east thrived during the Song (960 -1279), Yuan (1271-1368), Ming (1368 -1644) and early Qing (1644 -1911) dynasties, leading to the flourishment of Chinese export ceramics.

This exhibition features over 100 pieces of ceramic ware dating from the Tang (618 - 907) to the early Qing dynasties to provide an insight into the importance of Chinese ceramics made for export before 1700 and the involvement of the Arabs, Japanese, Portuguese, Dutch and other European markets in this maritime trade. Through the exhibits, it explores the history and diversity of ceramic wares produced in folk kilns of China.

A half-day symposium will be held in conjunction with the exhibition at the Museum on Saturday 16 June. Speakers include Mr Brian McElney, Honorary Keeper of the Museum of East Asian Art, Bath, and scholars from China, Southeast Asia and Europe. It will bring together archaeologists and ceramic scholars from China, Southeast Asia, and the United Kingdom, highlighting recent advances in the study on trade ceramics.

The exhibition is made possible with the support of the Li and Fung Group, Cathay Pacific Airways Limited, East Asian Art Foundation and Great Eagle Holdings.

The Museum's opening hours are Monday to Saturday 9.30 a.m. to 6.00 p.m., Sunday 1.30 to 5.30 p.m.  Closed on University and public holidays. Admission is free. All are welcome.

Please visit the Museum's website or call +852 2241 5512 for further information.