On September 30, “The Potter’s Art: Treasures from V&A Wedgwood Collection” exhibition will open at Chengdu Museum, showcasing 202 treasures from the collections of the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) of the UK, Sichuan Museum, and Chengdu Museum. The exhibition marks the first time that the V&A’s rare porcelain collection will be presented in Chengdu.

 

 

Porcelain is a beautiful gift from China to the world. On July 25 this year, Jingdezhen Handicraft Porcelain Industry Sites were included in the World Heritage List at the 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee.

 

As a truly global commodity in the history of human trade, porcelain traveled across oceans along the Maritime Silk Road and sparked a centuries-long fascination with Chinese aesthetics in Europe, followed by centuries of decryption, imitation, adaptation, and innovation.

 

Now, these treasures are crossing the oceans to the birthplace of porcelain for a centuries-spanning dialogue.

 

 

Portrait Medallion of Queen Charlotte

 

 

 

Jasperware is known for its hard, fine texture and jewel-like appearance. The portrait medallion’s cobalt-blue body, gilt oval frame, and white relief portrait at the center create an elegant and dignified effect.

 

 

First Day’s Vase

 

 

 

Known to be the only ceramic vase made by Josiah Wedgwood himself, the piece is crafted from black basalt and inspired by the style of ancient Greek pottery. Dignified and elegant, it is named “First Day” to commemorate the Etruria Factory he founded.

 

 

Plate from the “Frog Service” (Painted with a View of the Lake at West Wycombe, Buckinghamshire)

 

 

 

The famous “Frog Service” was a custom-made porcelain service commissioned by Catherine the Great of Russia. Comprising 925 pieces, the complete service was made from the renowned cream-colored Queen’s Ware and hand-painted with 1,222 views of British landscapes by 29 artists. The plate, painted with a view of the lake at West Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, is part of the “Frog Service”.

 

 

First Replica of the Portland Vase

 

 

 

The replica of the Portland Vase took nearly five years and thousands of trials to complete. Its white reliefs stand out against the dark background. It is both a tribute to and a revival of the art of ancient Rome, and was regarded as a pinnacle of British ceramic craftsmanship at the time.

 

 

Pillar Vase, “Fairyland Lustre” Series

 

 

 

Daisy Makeig-Jones’s “Fairyland Lustre” series draws on myths and folklore to create a visual world filled with fantastical colors.

 

 

“Campanula” Saucer

 

 

 

Since the 20th century, Art Deco has flourished across Europe and the US, finding expression in various aspects of society. The unique “Campanula” tea set was designed by renowned French designer Paul Follot.

 

 

Exhibition Information

 

 

Dates: September 30 to December 27, 2026

Venue: Special Exhibition Hall, 1F, Chengdu Museum

Admission: Free (reservation required)

 

Edited by Zhang Yuanlin

Source: Home in Chengdu