Rapid globalization has increased international interest in Chinese pottery, some of which dates back to before 3000 BC. These pieces are not only beautiful but artifacts that call attention to the artistry and sophistication of ancient Chinese culture. In 2006 casino mogul Steve Wynn purchased a vase made during the Ming dynasty for a record $10 million. Prior to the auction, the pear-shaped vase was
owned by a Scottish couple, who used it as a lamp. In 2011 Wynn broke his own record when he purchased additional vases for nearly $13 million at an auction house in London. China’s newly rich, who justifiably take a great deal of pride in their ancient culture, are also the types of clients that frequent Wynn’s casinos. In returning these artifacts to their motherland — displaying them in his Macau properties — Wynn demonstrates his appreciation and commitment to the Chinese people and their culture.
This context makes celebrated Chinese contemporary artist Ai Wiewei’s Colored Vases, shown here, incredibly radical. Ai Weiwei’s art takes a variety of forms but is always politically charged and draws
attention to critical social issues. In this particular work Ai took traditional Chinese earthenware pots and dipped them in industrial paint. He said the ancient vessels were “no longer visible, but still there.” When questioned if the pots he covered were real historic artifacts, he appeared shocked that anyone would think otherwise. This lingering question of authenticity is where the power of this work resides. It is hard to imagine anyone painting over objects that have so much cultural meaning and value. Some haunting questions are: What is the true value of a historical artifact? What are we covering up through our actions that can never be restored? Are we unknowingly using our most valuable cultural assets as lamps?