China Through The Looking Glass - Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Wall Street Journal gave this exhibit such a rave review -- complete with this photo -

- that I decided that it was time to renew my membership at the Met and head on over for a look.

I am glad that I did.  This exhibit is truly spectacular. 

They learned a lesson from their last extravaganza and have spread the exhibit out over many of the Asian galleries so that even with the large crowds there is a bit more breathing room. 

Much of the existing decor has been replaced with shiny black surfaces, spot lighting, and mirrors that allow the pieces to shimmer.  

It's a bit disorienting, or as a staff member said on my visit -- trippy, and it does make photography a bit tough, but the overall effect is extraordinary. 

Many of the pieces are placed in the middle of the space so that they can be viewed from all directions -- which they definitely should be.

The gowns and accessories are magnificent, and the complementary use of video creates an immersive effect. 

As the videos change, the light reflected on the pieces change as well.  It is the perfect combination of art and spectacle and I highly recommend a visit, or two. 

The exhibit runs through August 18, so you have plenty of time. 

Enjoy!

PJ

(c) 2015 PJ Lehrer