Dish with Hydrangeas

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This dish draws the viewer's attention to a single sprig of hydrangea, a typical summer blossom of Japan, framed by a pale green mist. The flowers painted in cobalt blue paired with the hazy celadon glaze give the impression that we are seeing these flowers shortly after a summer rain shower. The refined, almost poetic nature of this dish is appropriate considering its use. This is an example of Nabeshima ware, a specialty porcelain that was produced during the Edo period. The production of this type of porcelain was carried out at a separate kiln from those making commercial porcelain, in order to keep the techniques and designs secret. These wares would be reserved exclusively for use as presents to members of the ruling class. Nabeshima ware, therefore, had to live up to the highest standards and was made to suit a discriminating taste.

Asian Art

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Met's collection of Asian art—more than 35,000 objects, ranging in date from the third millennium B.C. to the twenty-first century—is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world. Each of the many civilizations of Asia is represented by outstanding works, providing an unrivaled experience of the artistic traditions of nearly half the world.

Metropolitan Museum of Art