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Highlights from the Fred A. Freund Collection

  • Duration:Temporary
  • Location:Whitten Featured Object Case

(date) 6/2/2015–9/6/2015

These intricate Chinese woodcarvings represent recent additions to the Fred A. Freund Collection at the Spurlock Museum. As of 2014, Mr. Freund has donated nearly 200 Chinese and Japanese objects to the Spurlock Museum.

Mr. Freund’s collecting began in New York City in the mid­1970s and continues to this day. While purchasing art for his home, Mr. Freund discovered the woodcarving traditions of East Asia, and a passion was born. His first donation of 29 carvings took place in 1999, prior to the completion of the current Spurlock Museum building. Visit the Workman Gallery of Asian Cultures to view 16 objects from that first donation.

While they are occasionally constructed from rare woods or precious materials, the true significance of these objects is found in the craftsmanship and attention to detail they demonstrate. The pieces on display here originate from China and represent Taoist and Buddhist gods, famous intellectuals, and mythological and real animals.

There are also items for a scholar’s desk like brush rests and a decorative box.