24 Aug 2010

The printed image in China

"The Printed image in China" is a free current exhibition at the British Museum dedicated to the history of the Chinese prints.

The Chinese print art originated around 700 AD and therefore has the longest printing history in the world. First prints were focused on the life of Buddha, on themes related to Confucianism and Taoism. However slowly they stared embracing other topics such as: art, science, social life and everyday life of ordinary people. Materials and techniques used for the production have been changing over centuries. Especially works created during the Ming Dynasty(1368-1644) are very rich in colours and texture. The exhibition covers the period between 700 AD and now.  About 120 pieces of the art are on display. 

 
  Popular print of the Jade Emperor-  the Taoist ruler of heaven and all realms of existence 

 An example of prints attributed to the period of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644)

 An example of prints originated in the 17th century

 Warrior Qing dynasty, 18th century
 Chairman Mao


Contemporary print, Chatting over the tea

 
 Contemporary print, River Dwellers
 

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