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Nomura Court in the National Gallery

Asian Art on Display

The National Gallery's collection of Asian Art was given permanent exhibition space in Nomura Court in 1988. The works are rotated periodically, as the collection has grown too large to be exhibited in its entirety.

The exhibition space itself follows a symmetrical layout, with the viewer entering into a central section which is set up to be reminiscent of a religious interior, such as a temple. Focus is drawn to one or a few symmetrically arranged pieces which operate as a kind of altarpiece. Other smaller works are arranged in rows parallel with the side walls, forming a channel for the central focus of the space. On the 'back' wall of the space are display cabinets which hold works which are often grouped by country of origin or functional similarity.

Some pieces are given special consideration in display, such as the Hindu sculptural pieces which depict Vishnu. Hindu belief places great importance on eye contact between Vishnu and the devotee during worship, so for this reason, these works have been placed at such a height as to make eye contact possible for the average adult viewer. Similarly, the approachable Burmese works of Buddha and his two chief disciples are placed lower to the floor, to enhance their friendly and serene features. It can be seen on the back of the Buddha's hand how the varnish has been worn off this piece by worshippers stroking it during prayer. The tactile qualities of these pieces are brought to the fore by their closeness to the viewer.

The walls of Nomura Court are a deep green colour, evoking a calm, yet regal feeling in the space. Decorative textiles add a richness of pattern, while the paintings depict scenery and motifs which place the works within an almost geographical context. The lighting is subdued, with highlights on individual works where necessary.

All these elements combine to give the viewer a sense of the original meaning and significance of the artworks on display. The religious themes running through the works themselves are supported by the symmetrical, ordered layout and meditative atmosphere of the exhibition space. It stands quite apart from the other spaces in the gallery as a specific site for Asian Art.

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Jane Carter 19.10.95