Membership
Treat yourself or a loved one with the gift of Membership: enjoy free access to all exhibitions, access to our Members’ Room, priority booking to evening talks, and much more.
Join today
Chinese Ceramics: Object-handling session
One-day course
+44 (0)20 7942 2000
Join us onsite at V&A South Kensington as we explore how ceramics of the Ming and Qing dynasty constitute the mainstay of the V&A Chinese collection. Contrasting artistic trends, regional styles and technical innovations through the handling of selected objects, students will gain a deeper understanding of Chinese ceramic typologies and why they were so prized by collectors at home and abroad. Focussing on ceramics of the Ming and Qing periods, this study morning introduces the key characteristics of body and glaze through the close examination of objects and handling of key items.
This session is designed for people who already have some understanding of the fascinating world of Chinese ceramics. Luckily, we have a lecture course on Chinese ceramics starting in January which would provide an excellent grounding. Click here to find out more.
This session is designed for people who already have some understanding of the fascinating world of Chinese ceramics. Luckily, we have a lecture course on Chinese ceramics starting in January which would provide an excellent grounding. Click here to find out more.
Course Director
Dr Helen Glaister
Dr Helen Glaister is an art historian who specialises in Chinese ceramics and decorative arts. She has been Course Director of the Arts of Asia Year Course since 2006 and previously worked at Birkbeck College and the British Museum. Helen was awarded her MA and PhD from SOAS (University of London) where she regularly teaches.
I learnt so much and must commend all of the presenters and the course leader for their obvious passion for the subject matter Previous V&A Academy student
Course overview
Students will observe developments in materials and making, regional styles and artistic characteristics which came to define fine porcelains and ceramics across the vast territories of China and beyond, to overseas markets and collectors. The V&A collection is particularly rich in ceramics from this period due to the efforts of private collectors and curators since the founding of the museum.
V&A Academy. A learning environment you can trust.
Being up close with treasured objects from the V&A's collections brings your learning to life. Join our expert tutors and meet fellow learners to join the discussion.
Enrol now
One-day course: Chinese Ceramics: Object-handling session
21 February 2025
£150.00
Need help enrolling? Talk to the admissions team:
+44 (0)20 7942 2000
Open 10.00 - 13.00, Monday to Sunday (closed 24-26 December)
Header image: Porcelain vase decorated in polychrome enamels, Jingdezhen, China, Qianlong mark and period, ca. 1770-1795 © Victoria and Albert Museum, London