Collecting Asia: The First 50 Years, 1908 – 1958

From 1908 to 1958 a group of influential individuals, scholars and art dealers were instrumental in building the ROM’s renowned Asian collections through offering financial support , their collecting prowess and knowledge of Asian cultures. A remarkable collection was assembled, which brought awareness and understanding of distant cultures to Canadians, and a century later continues to connect visitors to the world and to each other. The exhibition will include objects that have never been or are rarely on display, as well as fascinating letters illuminating the stories behind the acquisition of many of the pieces. The ROM was established as an international museum and forged a long-standing relationship with China, echoed today by the partnership with Beijing’s Palace Museum to present The Forbidden City: Inside the Court of China’s Emperors Presented by The Robert H. N. Ho Family Foundation; Lead Sponsor Manulife.

George Crofts, Collector of Chinese Antiquities & ROM Donor

Charles Trick Currelly, First Director of Archaeology at the ROM

Sir Edmund Walker, President of CIBC, First Chairman of the Board of Directors, and ROM Donor

Mrs. H.D. Warren, Member of the First Board of Directors and ROM Donor

Bishop William White, Collector and scholar of Chinese artifacts and ROM Donor