Exhibition - Chinese Ritual Bronzes from the Minneapolis Institute of Art

Bronze casting in China, which began over 4,000 years ago, stands as one of the greatest achievements in early metalcraft. During the Shang (1600–1046 BCE) and Zhou (1046–256 BCE) dynasties, the period known as the Bronze Age, ritual bronze vessels played a central role in ancestor worship, a cornerstone of Chinese spiritual and social life. Each vessel type served a specific purpose in ritual ceremonies and was adorned with intricate designs that symbolized power, spirituality, and cosmic harmony. Many were inscribed to honor ancestors, rulers, or to commemorate significant events, blending artistic mastery with historical records. These vessels, crafted using advanced casting techniques, were not only functional but also remarkable testaments to technological and cultural sophistication.

This exhibition, drawn from the extensive collection of the Minneapolis Institute of Art, explores the diverse forms, functions, and symbolic meanings of ancient Chinese bronzes, providing a window into the spiritual and artistic essence of early Chinese civilization.

Organized by Minneapolis Institute of Art. Curated by Dr. Liu Yang, Chair of Asian Art and Curator of Chinese Art at the Minneapolis Institute of Art.

Saturday – Wednesday 10 AM – 5 PM

Thursday – Friday 10 AM – 8 PM

FREE admission 5 – 8 PM

Closed on major holidays: April 18, May 23, May 26, June 19

*For more details, please refer to information online at chinainstitute.org/gallery-exhibitions

Admissions (Photo ID Required for Entrance)

Adults: $15.00

Students & seniors (with valid ID): $10.00

Children under 16: free

Members of China Institute: free (With membership ID to be shown at the door)

"Eternal Offerings: Chinese Ritual Bronzes from the Minneapolis Institute of Art" is organized by the Minneapolis Institute of Art. Generous support for the exhibition and related catalogue provided by the Blakemore Foundation, the E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation, the National Endowment for the Humanities: Exploring the human endeavor, the Bei Shan Tang Foundation, the Henry Luce Foundation, and Christie’s.

China Institute Gallery’s presentation of "Eternal Offerings" is made possible, in part, by support from the following: Center for Language Education and Cooperation; E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation; Angela H. King, Joseph Tse Foundation; and an anonymous donor.

This program is supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council.

"Eternal Offerings" is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.

Thursday, March 6 | 6:30 - 8 pm

Curator’s Lecture

“Alfred Pillsbury’s Collection of Ancient Chinese Bronzes at Mia”

This lecture traces the formation of Alfred Pillsbury’s collection during the early 20th century and offers updated perspectives on many masterpieces from this remarkable assemblage.

Friday, March 14 | 10 am - 8 pm

Asia Week New York Open House

Free admission with light refreshments.

Saturday, April 12 | 3 - 5 pm

The 9th Orchid Pavilion Gathering

“A Toast to the Ancestors: Wine Vessels of the Shang and Zhou Dynasties”

This annual event celebrates the spirit of the famous gathering conuducted by literati Wang Xizhi in the spring of 353 BC. Curator Dr. Liu Yang will talk about wine vessels on display in the exhibition. Reception with baijiu tasting to follow.

For more information on all exhibition-related programs, please contact Tracy Jiao at [email protected].

Discover China Through Art

Our art education program features a docent-led gallery tour and hands-on workshop for an exclusive experience of Chinese art and culture. To learn about or register your group, please contact Yue Ma at [email protected].

Covering every genre of Chinese art, China Institute Gallery’s catalogues reflect the depth and breadth of our past exhibitions. To purchase, please visit chinainstitute.org.

Cover: Celestial horse, Han dynasty (25 - 220 CE), bronze with traces of polychrome, gift of Ruth and Bruce Dayton.

Host or Publisher China Institute