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Spanning some 17 centuries of ceramics and sculpture, Dr T.T. Tsui's gift to the National Gallery of Australia offers a spectacular panorama of Chinese culture, and the pieces selected specially for exhibition at the McDougall illustrate superbly the cultural peaks of China's long history.

Dr Tsui's collection represents two decades of research and acquisition, and he has subsequently supported major museums worldwide through gifts and assistance. As T.T. Tsui says, 'ancient works of art are the most persuasive and durable evidence of the cultural traditions of the people.'

The art objects themselves vary considerably in style, form and size. A pottery jar from the Han dynasty (206BC–AD220) is impressively large, yet reveals a strikingly simple and elegant aesthetic. A pottery figurine from the same era gives insight to the costume of the period, and reminds one of the similarity of many Chinese design conventions in clothing and form over the centuries. By contrast, objects from the Tang dynasty, (AD618–906) such as the glazed earthenware camels, are compellingly lifelike, while the menacing Lokapala (guardian figure) is a study in finely-wrought ferocity. In every case, it is remarkable that vulnerable objects of such antiquity have survived the ages, to evoke the atmosphere of ancient China in our present-day. This is a major exhibition to acknowledge the national Festival of Asia, and for their continuing support we thank the ASIA 2000 Foundation of New Zealand, one of whose roles is to promote an appreciation of Asian culture in the community. This is an exhibition which will obviously appeal to those of Chinese heritage, but will be equally enjoyable for all with an interest in the art of ancient cultures. The director, Dr Brian Kennedy and his staff at the National Gallery of Australia in Canberra have all been most helpful in making the early touring of this exhibition possible, and we are especially indebted to Ms Robyn Maxwell, their Senior Curator of Asian Art, for her support. This exhibition forms the basis of a show scheduled to tour Australia at a later date, and Ms Maxwell's efforts on our behalf have made possible advanced preparation and conservation of the art objects which we will enjoy here from February until April.

Proudly supported by Christchurch Casino and ASIA 2000 Foundation of New Zealand.

This exhibition was held at the Robert McDougall Art Gallery in the Botanic Gardens.