Layers of Meaning: China’s Flora and Fauna in Painting and on Porcelain

This permanent collection rotation features paintings, porcelain, and textiles with depictions of China’s rich flora and fauna. Artists and craftspeople chose themes to celebrate the beauty of nature, convey auspicious wishes and good fortune, or to express political or philosophical thoughts. While the motifs of flora and fauna have a decorative appearance, their composition and combinations often provided viewers with coded messages or statements about the state and society.