Technical Studies of Asian Art: Proceedings of the Seventh Forbes Symposium at the Freer Gallery of Art

Abstract

Commemorating the Freer Gallery of Art’s centennial, this volume of papers presented at the seventh Forbes Symposium offers a multidisciplinary examination of a rich expanse of art from across Asia. It presents technical studies of objects—from Chinese bronzes and Japanese lacquerware to Korean ceramics and silk paintings—analyzed through advanced scientific methods. Using a combination of traditional and cutting-edge methods, the studies reveal the secrets hidden within ancient materials.The essays highlight collaborative research between conservators, scientists, and art historians, revealing insights into material composition, degradation processes, and cross-cultural influences. They demonstrate how interdisciplinary approaches can enrich curatorial narratives and inform preservation strategies, while showcasing the evolving role of technical art history and conservation science in deepening our understanding of artistic practice and historical context.