Front Gallery

The front gallery provides a dramatic introduction to the Asian art collection. Its center platform contains ornate jade and ivory sculptures, some of which are as large as 4 feet tall. Contrasting Chinese paintings hang on opposing walls — on one wall is a framed landscape painting on silk, made in the mid-seventeenth century. On the opposite wall is a set of six large scrolls executed in 2002 by contemporary Chinese artist, Wan Qingli.

In addition to the display, free docent tours are available. Reservations are required for group tours, and are suggested for docent tours and the video presentation. The museum telephone number is 724.282.0123.

The Front Gallery is the first stop at The Maridon Museum in Butler, PA, and a dramatic introduction to the museum’s collection of Chinese and Japanese art.

Jade and Ivory Sculptures

At the center of the gallery, a raised platform displays ornate jade and ivory sculptures, some as large as 4 feet tall. These carvings are among the highlights of The Maridon’s permanent collection of more than 800 art objects, assembled by museum founder Mary Hulton Phillips.

Chinese Painting, Then and Now

Two very different Chinese paintings hang on opposing walls. On one wall is a framed landscape painting on silk from the mid-seventeenth century. On the opposite wall is a set of six large ink-on-paper scrolls, each 6 feet by 8 feet, painted in 2002 by contemporary Chinese artist Wan Qingli. Seen together, they show how Chinese painting has carried forward across more than 350 years.

Tours of the Front Gallery

Free docent tours are available and add insight into the art, history, and craftsmanship on display. Reservations are required for group tours and are suggested for docent tours and the video presentation. Call 724.282.0123 to reserve.

Continue your visit: The collection continues in the Side and Rear Galleries and the Meissen Gallery. See hours and admission to plan your visit.