Through January 4, 2026
The Met
Enamel decoration represents an exquisite and historically significant aspect of Chinese decorative arts that has often been overlooked in traditional scholarship. This remarkable exhibition at The Met explores the profound aesthetic, technical, and cultural innovations of Chinese enamel wares from the Ming (1368–1644) and Qing (1644–1911) dynasties, revealing how this art form played a transformative role in the evolution of decorative arts over several centuries.
The exhibition centers on two pivotal transformational periods. The first, during the late 14th to 15th centuries, was marked by the introduction of cloisonné enamel techniques from the West alongside the development of porcelain with overglaze enamels at Jingdezhen. This innovation shifted Chinese decorative art from predominantly monochromatic objects to vibrant, multicolored works, enriching the visual and cultural language of enamel art.
The second transformation occurred in the late 17th to 18th centuries when European enameling materials and techniques were introduced to the Qing court. These exchanges led to the development of more subtle and varied color tones, applied not only to porcelain but also to metal, glass, and other mediums. Importantly, Chinese artists did not merely imitate European methods; rather, they ingeniously adapted these influences to create unique color palettes and innovative styles that reflected indigenous tastes and cultural values.
Featuring more than 100 objects primarily drawn from The Met’s renowned collection, this exhibition highlights masterworks that illustrate the complexity, refinement, and creativity of Chinese enamel. Visitors will gain insight into the craftsmanship, materials, and cultural dialogues that shaped these objects, appreciating enamel not just as decoration but as a dynamic art form with its own intricate history.
For a comprehensive understanding and to explore further details on featured objects and exhibition programming, please visit the official exhibition page at The Met’s Embracing Color Exhibition.
