THE SEDGWICK COLLECTION of early Chinese ceramics at the Harvard Art Museums is the result of a decade-long collaboration between Walter C. Sedgwick (Harvard Class of 1969) and Robert D. Mowry, the inaugural Alan J. Dworsky Curator of Chinese Art at Harvard Art Museums. The collection was formally acquired from the Walter C. Sedgwick Foundation in 2006 and has become a vital part of educational programming at the Harvard Art Museums. Walter Sedgwick clarified his motivation as follows: “To me, art is meant not only for admiration, but also to continuously teach scholars, students and the public. What distinguishes a teaching museum is the focus on scholarship and the access to original works of art, unlike other museums that keep much of their collection in storage or in other ways inaccessible. I wanted this collection to be utilised to its fullest potential in a teaching museum where there is a community of scholars, supporters, objects, students and art conservators, just as there is at Harvard.”
Dr Sarah Laursen is the current Alan J. Dworsky Curator of Chinese Art at Harvard Art Museums. She oversees the Chinese art collection, as well as parts of the Korean and Central, South and Southeast Asian collections. In her Introduction for this Autumn 2024 issue, Dr Laursen writes that the Walter C. Sedgwick Foundation collection of early Chinese ceramics “comprises approximately 300 objects ranging from the 7th millennium BC to the 12th century and provides an extraordinary window onto China’s ancient past”. I would like to thank Dr Laursen and her colleagues for their informative articles in this special issue. In addition, I would like to acknowledge the comprehensive articles by Dr Christian Boehm and thank him sincerely for his great support.
It has been “all change” for the leading international auction houses in Hong Kong this summer, as they have all moved into larger premises. In particular, Sotheby’s Maison, located at Landmark Chater in the heart of Central, Hong Kong, opened at the end of July. Nicolas Chow, Chairman of Sotheby’s Asia, who worked extremely hard on this major project, kindly gave me a tour of Sotheby’s impressive flagship in Asia. The 24,000 square foot multifaceted space has on the ground floor a dramatic state-of-the-art area boasting a six-metre high ceiling designed for immersive experiences. The first floor features Sotheby’s concept store, an uniquely curated retail experience exploring an array of cross-category art, luxury goods and collectibles offered for purchase.
Nicolas explained: “We want to invite people into the world of collecting. Sotheby’s Maison serves as a concept store, the ultimate curated retail experience for both seasoned connoisseurs and those new to art. Art is a journey that ignites passion and curiosity. Whether it’s a rare book, an African mask, or a jewel—each object evokes an emotion that transports you to another world, another time.”
In August, Bonhams announced Chabi Nouri as its new Global CEO. Ms Nouri, who will be based in Bonhams’ headquarters in New Bond Street, London, will take up the position in October 2024. She has deep knowledge and experience of international luxury and retail organisations—her previous roles were as Jewellery Group manager at Cartier, then as CEO of Piaget, the Swiss watch and jewellery company, where she worked for seven years before joining the Swiss Mirabaud Group in 2022 as Private Equity Partner.
Ms Nouri said: “I am delighted to be joining Bonhams, which has a long heritage, rich history and strong values as an auction house, as well as a reputation as an innovator. Its focus on digital transformation, global reach and passion, nurtured by its extraordinary talents, makes it an exceptionally exciting and dynamic company.” Let me take this opportunity to congratulate her and wish her all the best in this important role.
I am pleased to inform readers about the recent digital innovations that have been launched at Arts of Asia. Our new Arts of Asia Bookshop presents a curated selection of books and catalogues about Asian art and culture from esteemed authors and publishers. Covering a wide range of topics and countries, some rare collectibles are presently being offered, together with volumes previously reviewed in the magazine. This platform will hopefully be of interest and offer something to Asian art lovers, collectors and specialists.
I would also like to mention that the Arts of Asia Calendar has become a popular way of staying up-to-date with global events, offering a comprehensive overview of various exhibitions, talks, workshops, conferences, sales and auctions, as well as other stimulating events in the Asian art world. Please do browse our website and utilise these helpful tools.
Finally, I hope that readers had a relaxing summer and I look forward to meeting those of you planning to attend forthcoming Asian art events, auctions and exhibitions in the coming months.
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