Jewelry, a major repository of wealth and artistic expression, was important in both settled and nomadic societies and was worn for festive occasions and for displaying wealth and social position. The museum will publish a scholarly, illustrated catalogue written by guest curator George O'Bannon of Tucson, Arizona, an internationally recognized authority on Oriental rugs and author of numerous books, catalogues and articles about oriental rugs. The works featured in the exhibition were chosen for their exquisite artistic quality, excellent condition and suitability as representations of the cultures of the various tribes. Philip Henry Alston Jr. Galleries and is generously sponsored by Director's Circle members Patricia Irvin Cooper, Mr. and Mrs. J. P. Huskins, and Mrs. William T. Bennett. Step onto this magic carpet to virtually enter some of the chambers of the exhibition and gaze upon its treasures.
Box lunches are available by reservation only.
Call the department of education at 542-GMOA to reserve a lunch and for further information. A family day filled with food, music, and an art activity all inspired by the exhibition. All events are free and open to the public. Splendid Silks of Central Asia provides information about Ikat, in conjunction with an exhibition that was held in Boston of the Guido Goldman Collection. This is an excellent educational site developed by Carol Bier, the curator of The Textile Museum, Washington D.C., and funded jointly by the National Endowment for the Arts and Sotheby's.