This 30th anniversary exhibition pays tribute to Brian Shane McElney OBE, who founded the Museum of East Asian Art in 1993, and who passed away on 26 April 2023 at the age of 90.
Through a series of rare historical photographs, and a display of 30 treasures from the collection, this exhibition uncovers hidden stories of the Museum, looks at the fascinating life of the late Museum founder and acknowledges the contribution of communities in Hong Kong and Bath which have helped to shape the Museum and its collection over the decades.
‘My intention has always been that the Museum display at all times some of the rare wonders of East Asian Art and particularly the marvellous arts of China.’ Brian McElney
Jade carving of a boy holding a cat. Early Ming dynasty (1368-1550) or earlier. Image © Museum of East Asian Art
Bamboo carving of toads, signed by Shen Dasheng. Ming dynasty, dated by inscription to 1623. Image © Museum of East Asian Art
Curator Ivy Yi Yan Chan interviewed by Richard Wyatt, July 2023.