“Little White House” is what they call it. It is a striking post-Renaissance building. Today, we explore the Shanghai Museum of Arts and Crafts. This museum is more than just a building. It is a treasure trove of Shanghai’s artistic soul. Once the residence of the Director-General of the French Concession, this building now showcases the best of Shanghai’s arts and crafts.
Step inside the three-story museum. You will find yourself surrounded by exquisite artwork. In the main hall, a lacquer screen greets you. It depicts the goddess of the Luohe River. The dark lacquer provides subtle depth. Graceful figures stand out against the plain background. The colors come from mother-of-pearl, jade, ivory and rosewood. Excellent carving techniques bring the goddesses to life.
Other carvings use ivory, jade, lacquer, porcelain, wood, ink stone and bamboo. The craftsmanship seems almost magical. Look for the Mushroom Ink Stone. It is the final work of Chen Duanyou. He was a founder of Shanghai’s ink stone carving technique. Even unfinished, it is stunningly beautiful. The mushrooms look soft and moist.
If you love Chinese opera, you are in for a treat. The costumes here are incredible. Even royal clothes would not be more delicate. These robes shimmer with gold threads. The crowns sparkle with kingfisher feathers.
The Shanghai Museum of Arts and Crafts is special. It displays both tangible and intangible cultural heritage. You can appreciate the artworks. You can also see how they are made. On the third floor, ten workshops are open. Here, you can watch artisans creating embroidery and jade carvings.
The museum preserves endangered skills. Admire the rich legacy of traditional arts and crafts. Explore the distinctive building. It is a journey through art history.
Before you leave, visit the craft shop on the first floor. There are many crafts for sale. Paper cuttings and wood carvings are affordable. Buy a souvenir to remember your visit. Take a walk on the large lawn. Red carp swim in the small pond. The spiral staircase from the second to the third floor offers a great photo opportunity. Capture the beauty of this museum. The Shanghai Museum of Arts and Crafts offers a unique experience.