Jointly presented by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department and the Min Chiu Society Co-organised by the Hong Kong Museum of Art and the Min Chiu Society Sponsored by the Friends of Hong Kong Museum of Art. 

In Chinese bronze script, the character jian resembles the imagery of a figure bending over water, gazing at its reflection in a bronze basin. Over time, the word has taken on a metaphorical meaning—to reflect one’s character. An object that serves only a practical purpose, devoid of deeper meaning, remains merely an ordinary vessel. But when a ware is crafted with meticulous care—balancing utility with symbolic significance—it becomes an embodiment of the Dao that transcends verbal expression. The forms and decorations of ancient artefacts not only reflect our ancestors’ reverence for nature and their quest for cosmic harmony but also bear witness to cultural exchange. In their silhouettes, we discern the essence of the universe; in their patterns, the laws of creation. Each vessel is a cipher to antiquity’s intellectual world, and only by retracing this path can we decipher the past to illuminate the present. 

The distinguished members of the Min Chiu Society have long upheld the aspiration to “revere antiquity while diligently seeking knowledge”. Their practice transcends mere collecting, embracing instead a tradition of meticulous study and has gained international acclaim. In celebration of the 65th anniversary of the Society, this exhibition features over 400 sets of precious Chinese artefacts from their collections, including Chinese painting and calligraphy, ceramics, bronzes, lacquerware, jades, bamboo carvings, furniture and snuff bottles, for the enjoyment, appreciation and enlightenment for all.

The exhibition is also one of the activities in the Chinese Culture Promotion Series. The LCSD has all along promoted Chinese history and culture through organising an array of programmes and activities to enable the public learn more about broad and profound Chinese culture.