East of Eden: Gardens in Asian Art

This exhibition explores garden traditions practiced by Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Persian, Turkish, and other cultures as seen through some of the world's most exquisite works of art. Approximately 65 painted screens, hanging scrolls and manuscript illustrations, colorful ceramics, rare lacquered vessels, and gold inlaid metalworks show how the cultivation of gardens has played a central role in the ceremonial, religious, and economic life of Asia for centuries. Supplementing the exhibition is a contemporary video work Flowering Plants of the Four Seasons by Japanese artist Mami Kosemura, whose work is on view for the first time in Washington, D.C.

This exhibition coincides with the 2007 National Cherry Blossom Festival from March 31 - April 15, 2007.