Ming gold: the dazzling exhibition unveiled in images at the Musée Guimet

Beauty is an art that Ming dynasty women learned to master... And not just any way. To illuminate the faces and outfits of these ladies, there's nothing better than gold! The Musée Guimet invites you to discover its sumptuous exhibition L'or des Ming, fastes et beautés de la Chine impériale, running from September 18, 2024 to January 13, 2025.

The Ming dynasty lasted for almost three centuries (1368-1644) and left behind many treasures. Of course, we're all familiar with the famous porcelain vases. But this time, the Musée Guimet is focusing on the sumptuous gold ornaments and ceremonial crockery worn and used at the imperial court.

These jewels were reserved for the imperial family entourage and the highest social classes. Several paintings illustrate the use of gold at court: the precious metal was used to make jewelry and decorative objects, in engraving, filigree or alongside precious stones and jades.

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These ornamental ornaments were most often found in embroidery, hairstyles, or on the bodies of Ming women, to enhance their beauty. These jewels were a sign of opulence, but also of extreme refinement, in a court renowned for its arts and rich crafts.

The exhibition at the Musée Guimet highlights some exceptional pieces, and reveals the secrets of this gold. Craft techniques, color symbolism , the meaning of motifs, links with nature or Buddhism: behind the aesthetic aspect lies a whole world of meaning and codes...

The Musée Guimet also offers a number of audiovisual displays, recalling the important history of the Ming period, and revealing the secrets behind the making of these gold objects.

The exhibition is astonishing: the colorful scenography illustrates life at the Ming court. But what really catches our attention are these exceptional pieces, which have superbly withstood the test of time. We can admire jewelry, ornaments and decorative objects of exceptional finesse: the work is so detailed it's like lace! The beauty of these objects lies in the thousands of details that make up each piece.

Immerse yourself in the heart of the Ming imperial court, and let yourself be dazzled by its beauty.