Treasure of Japanese Ceramic Artistry Unveiled
Lehigh Alum Donates Collection of Japanese Porcelain to LUAG
Robert G. Wheeler '50, a distinguished Lehigh alum and Yale scholar, has donated a collection of 32 pieces of Japanese porcelain to the Lehigh University Art Galleries (LUAG). This collection, spanning from the mid-17th century to the 19th century, offers a fascinating glimpse into Japanese society and serves as a means to teach about the evolving technology in ceramic materials and techniques.
Wheeler's interest in porcelains was sparked in 1974, during a study trip to China as part of a delegation of scholars. This journey ignited his curiosity about the Chinese porcelain-making process, and when he learned that silicon dioxide, a major component of porcelain, was the focus of his research on silicon dioxide formation in oxygen furnaces, his fascination deepened.
Wheeler's attention turned to Japanese porcelain in the early 1980s, as rising auction prices piqued his interest. His preference for the minimalist aesthetic of Japanese porcelain designs led him to collect pieces that reflect the cultural or religious beliefs of the time periods they were created in.
One of the most intriguing pieces in the collection is a pie crust-shaped plate from 1670, which depicts a sage, water, and a duck. Another plate, from approximately 1690, features waves, a turtle, and birds. These artworks offer a unique insight into the artistic styles and cultural practices of the time.
The collection also provides a window into the early trade interactions among the Chinese, Japanese, and Europeans. Discussions about these interactions could inspire interest in the interaction between various cultures and peoples.
Wheeler, who went on to Yale to obtain his Ph.D. in physics, has made significant contributions to the study of Asian ceramics, including Japanese porcelain. While specific details about his significant contributions to Japanese porcelain are not readily available, his scholarly works and contributions to the study and authentication of Japanese and Chinese ceramics have helped advance understanding of their history and artistic styles.
For those interested in learning more about Wheeler's work, specialized books on Asian ceramics or academic publications that cite Robert G. Wheeler's research are recommended.
This generous donation from Robert G. Wheeler is a valuable addition to the LUAG's collection and promises to enrich the educational experience of students, faculty, and visitors alike. The collection will be on display at the LUAG, providing an opportunity for the Lehigh community and the public to appreciate the beauty and historical significance of these artworks.
- The faculty at Lehigh University may find the donated Japanese porcelain collection a valuable resource for cultural education and self-development, particularly in engineering classes that involve ceramic materials.
- The intricate designs depicted in the collection, such as the pie crust-shaped plate from 1670 featuring a sage, water, and a duck, can serve as a fascinating subject for lifelong learning and research in art and history.
- The evolving technology in ceramic materials and techniques, as seen through the collection's pieces dating from the mid-17th century to the 19th century, can inspire discussions about the role of technology in education-and-self-development, not only within the Lehigh community but also in the broader field of engineering.
- Robert G. Wheeler's contributions to the study of Asian ceramics, including Japanese porcelain, have not only made a significant impact in his academic field but also contributed to the understanding of the cultural and artistic practices of various eras in Japanese history.
