A Ming Emperor’s seat
A British Museum Spotlight Loan
This garden seat dates from the time of the Chinese Ming Emperor Wanli (reigned 1573-1620). That is the time when James I united the Scottish and English thrones. The exhibit celebrates the tenth anniversary of the Sir Percival David Collection at the British Museum and is a touring spotlight loan.
Sir Percival David (1892-1964) was an avid collector of Chinese ceramics. He was one of a small group of collectors to understand Chinese language and study Chinese culture. His work took him to China, Hong Kong and Japan. He helped promote a better relationship between the UK and China through the great exhibition of Chinese art in London in 1935 and raised money for China during the Second World War. Promoting understanding between different cultures is central to the work of Manchester Museum today.
Side views, large hollow blue and white porcelain garden seat, Jingdezhen, 1573–1620
© The Trustees of the British Museum lent by kind permission of the Trustees of the Sir Percival David Foundation
Top view, large hollow blue and white porcelain garden seat, Jingdezhen, 1573–1620
© The Trustees of the British Museum lent by kind permission of the Trustees of the Sir Percival David Foundation