TAIPEI (Taiwan News) – In an unprecedented collaboration, the National Palace Museum presents "Beauty Speaks for Itself" (大美不言), a breathtaking exhibition that brings together masterpieces from three of the world's most esteemed cultural institutions.
This extraordinary showcase, co-curated by the National Palace Museum, Paris' Museum of Decorative Arts, and High Jewelry Maison Van Cleef & Arpels, invites visitors on a transcendent journey through the universal language of beauty.
The exhibition's title "Beauty Speaks for Itself," derived from a quotation in the Zhuangzi (莊子), one of Taoism's foundational texts, suggests that true beauty needs no explanation—it communicates directly with the soul, bridging gaps between diverse civilizations and epochs.
The curators have carefully selected over 260 pieces that embody this universal appeal, demonstrating how artistic beauty can evoke similar emotional responses across different cultures and periods. Juxtaposing Eastern and Western masterpieces, the exhibition highlights the shared human experience of aesthetic appreciation.
The exhibition's immersive scenography, designed by renowned Japanese architect Tane Tsuyoshi (田根剛), enhances the visitor's experience. “The project was thrilling and ambitious, as they have their own story,” said Tane. He said the exhibition was challenging, requiring him to integrate three collections and create a harmonious dialogue.
The exhibition is structured around five captivating themes: nature, movement, fantasy, secrets, and colors. Each section is distinguished by its tonality and embraces a dreamlike atmosphere, inspired by the Chinese traditional shadow play, according to Tane.
Tane explained that they paired transparent glass with soft lighting to emphasize the precious nature of their contents, the grandeur of their materials, and the technicality of their craftsmanship.
“Our goal was not to reproduce the design but rather to imagine its evolution. Each change in location and audience size is an opportunity to transform and improve the immersive experience,” said Tane.
Tane acknowledged that adapting the exhibition to different venues, such as the upcoming opening in southern Taiwan in 2025, posed significant challenges. However, he viewed these differences as opportunities to create unique and tailored experiences for visitors in each location.
This landmark collaboration is set to open at the National Palace Museum in Taipei from Thursday (Sept 26) to Dec. 29, before moving to its Chiayi branch from Jan. 3 to April 20, 2025.
Highlighted Centerpieces
1. Revolving Openwork Vase with Dragon and Lotus Decoration
This Qianlong-period vase exemplifies the ingenuity of Chinese craftsmanship. Consisting of four interlocking revolving parts, it features rich decorations of clouds, bats, and traditional motifs.
2. Buire de Blois
This exquisite porcelain ewer, created by the European porcelain factory Manufacture nationale de Sèvres in 1883-1884, represents the pinnacle of 19th-century French luxury production. Combining exceptional technical savoir-faire with artistic talent, it features sculptures by Auguste Rodin and paintings inspired by the French Renaissance.
3. Zip Necklace
The avant-garde Zip necklace, patented in 1938 and produced in 1950, showcases Van Cleef & Arpels' innovative spirit. Inspired by the zipper mechanism, this piece can be worn as a necklace or transformed into a bracelet. The 1952 version on display, adorned with heart motifs, emeralds, and diamonds, exemplifies the Maison's taste for transformability and technical ingenuity.