The University Museum and Art Gallery (UMAG), The University of Hong Kong, and L’ÉCOLE Asia Pacific, School of Jewelry Arts, are very happy to support and to take part in the French May Arts Festival 2024 with a talk celebrating the influence of the dragon in art.
The dragon, also called loong in Chinese, is one of the most iconic and revered symbols in Chinese art and culture, representing power, strength, prosperity, and good fortune. This new lunar year is once again under its protection, therefore 2024 is anticipated to be most auspicious. Every jewelry house from Place Vendome offered a dragon inspired piece to celebrate rebirth and fruitful energies. Indeed, the dragon's association with wealth and success stems from its mythical attributes as a bringer of rain, a protector of crops, and a harbinger of prosperity.
From fashion designs to decorative arts, the serpentine creature proves to be highly popular throughout History. Originating from the East, the fantastic beast travelled through the silk roads to inspire legends and decors in the West. The first depictions of the Dragons are still subject to archeological research, particularly in the East, where the symbol is above all associated with China!
From magical bestiary to whimsical creatures, dragons ornate ancient regalia and contemporary collections, transforming jewels into legendary lucky charms, transcending cultures and nations to become international magical figures.
Speakers:
Florian Knothe, Associate Professor, Museum Director at University of Hong Kong
Mathilde Rondouin, Art Historian and Lecturer at L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts
Details:
Date: Thursday, June 6, 2024
Cocktail Session: 6:30pm-7:00pm
Conversation: 7:00pm–8:00pm
Language: English
Photo:Gasparo Miseroni (1518-1573), Lapis Lazuli Dragon Bowl, Circa 1565-1570, Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna
