Fine materials are not the only characteristics of the
spectacular works in this exhibition. Skilled craftsmanship is
also important to the aesthetic impact of these objects.
Extraordinary artists are able to transform the simplest object,
a humble fly whisk, for example, into an elegant work of art
that is as beautiful as it is practical. Compare the magnificent
workmanship of the 18th-century gold boxes from Europe with that
of the silver ones from India. Other objects such as clocks are
remarkable for their mechanical virtuosity as well as the
artistic crafting of their cases. Finally, the vessels from
different cultures exhibited here demonstrate the ways in which
precious materials and craftsmanship enhance the aesthetic,
ritualistic, and symbolic significance of objects all over the
world.
