Museo d'Arte Orientale
By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 15 January 2024
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The Museo d'Arte Orientale in Turin, is dedicated to the exposition of oriental or Asian art with more than two thousand exhibits on display. Also known by the acronym MAO, it's housed within the eighteenth century Palazzo Mazzonis in the city centre.
The artworks are displayed across four storeys of the building with each level dedicated to a particular regional theme. |
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The Museo d'Arte Orientale (Museum of Oriental Art) in Turin, Italy, is a significant cultural institution dedicated to the art and artifacts of Asian, Middle Eastern, and North African civilizations. The museum houses an impressive collection of objects from various countries and time periods, providing visitors with a rich insight into the diverse and fascinating cultures of the Orient.
The Museo d'Arte Orientale is housed in the 17th-century Palazzo Mazzonis, a beautiful historic building in the heart of Turin. The museum's collection is divided into different sections, each dedicated to specific regions or countries, such as China, Japan, India, Egypt, and the Islamic world.
The exhibits include a wide range of artworks and artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, textiles, metalwork, and religious objects. Visitors can admire traditional Japanese prints, Chinese calligraphy, intricate Islamic tiles, ancient Egyptian statuettes, and much more.
The museum's layout and presentation allow visitors to explore the rich history, artistic achievements, and cultural traditions of these regions, making it a captivating journey through the Orient.
The Museo d'Arte Orientale is housed in the 17th-century Palazzo Mazzonis, a beautiful historic building in the heart of Turin. The museum's collection is divided into different sections, each dedicated to specific regions or countries, such as China, Japan, India, Egypt, and the Islamic world.
The exhibits include a wide range of artworks and artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, textiles, metalwork, and religious objects. Visitors can admire traditional Japanese prints, Chinese calligraphy, intricate Islamic tiles, ancient Egyptian statuettes, and much more.
The museum's layout and presentation allow visitors to explore the rich history, artistic achievements, and cultural traditions of these regions, making it a captivating journey through the Orient.
History
The Museo d'Arte Orientale was established in 1878 when the city of Turin acquired a significant collection of Asian and Oriental artworks. The original collection belonged to the Italian diplomat and explorer, Enrico Cernuschi, who had traveled extensively in Asia and collected numerous cultural treasures.
Over the years, the museum's collection expanded through donations, acquisitions, and archaeological expeditions, further enriching its holdings and solidifying its reputation as one of the most important museums of Oriental art in Europe.
Over the years, the museum's collection expanded through donations, acquisitions, and archaeological expeditions, further enriching its holdings and solidifying its reputation as one of the most important museums of Oriental art in Europe.
Key features
- Opening Hours: The museum is generally open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, and it is closed on Mondays. Specific opening hours may vary depending on the season, so it's recommended to check the official website before planning your visit.
- Entrance Fee: There is an entrance fee to access the Museo d'Arte Orientale. Ticket prices may vary for adults, children, and students.
- Guided Tours: The museum occasionally offers guided tours or educational programs, providing deeper insights into the artworks and cultures represented.
- Accessibility: The museum is generally accessible to visitors with reduced mobility. Elevators and ramps are available for inclusivity.
Museo d'Arte Orientale/MAO Torino
City: Turin
Province: Metropolitan City of Turin Region: Piedmont Established: 2008 Close by: Palatine Towers, Turin Cathedral, Royal Palace of Turin Recommended accommodation: Turin Palace Hotel |