Sheila Copps Inaugurates Jade, the Ultimate Treasure of Ancient China Exhibit at the Art Gallery of Hamilton
OTTAWA, June 21, 2001 -- Minister of Canadian Heritage Sheila Copps today inaugurated the Jade, the Ultimate Treasure of Ancient China exhibit at the Art Gallery of Hamilton. The ceremony took place in the presence of the Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Canada, His Excellency Mei Ping; President of the Canadian Foundation for the Preservation of Chinese Cultural and Historical Treasures, Nelly Ng; Mayor of the City of Hamilton, Bob Wade; and Art Gallery of Hamilton President, Pat Collins."Thanks to this exhibit, Canadians have access to these Chinese jade objects which are true masterpieces," said Minister Copps. "As we pointed out recently by increasing funding to arts and culture, it is important that Canadians have access to diverse cultures as well as to our own rich heritage."
This exhibit presents 120 national treasures from China, the most beautiful jade objects that have ever been displayed. The showpiece of the collection is a jade funeral garment, made for Princess Douwan, dating back to the 2nd century B.C. Experts estimate that it would have taken more than 10 years to complete this dress, composed of more than 2,156 pieces of jade and sewn with 703 grams of gold thread.
Organized by the Canadian Foundation for the Preservation of Chinese Cultural and Historical Treasures and the China Cultural Relics Coordination Centre, this exhibit has received aid from the Canada Travelling Exhibitions Indemnification Program. The program makes it possible for the Government of Canada to guarantee travelling exhibits against any losses or damage.
The Jade, the Ultimate Treasure of Ancient China exhibit is part of a tour that began on September 28, 2000 at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, B.C. and will end at the National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa on January 5, 2003. It will have been presented in seven Canadian cities: Victoria, Vancouver, Hamilton, Winnipeg, Edmonton, Quebec City and Ottawa. Jade, the Ultimate Treasure of Ancient China is one of the first travelling exhibits to have received aid from the Government of Canada's indemnification program.
Information:
Krista Pawley
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-7788
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