Asian Cultures

The Asian continent covers a vast area which is occupied by many people of different races and language groups. The collection contains everyday items and those for more special occasions: some are connected with religious practices.

Shadow Puppet, Indonesia

India
The largest group of Asian objects come from India with many other parts of the Asian world represented by much smaller numbers. India has many links with Northern Ireland since colonial times and religious and everyday objects are well represented in the collection.Three large bronze...

Japan
A small but impressive collection from Japan comprises samurai armour, swords, a palanquin, netsuke, some fine ceramics and geological specimens. The kimono, the traditional dress of Japanese women, is still worn on formal occasions. This gold embroidered silk wedding kimono is one of the most sp...

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China
Over several centuries, missionaries and diplomats have established links between Northern Ireland and China. Four model Chinese junks were presented to the Museum by Sir Frederick Maze, KCMG., KBE., Inspector General of Chinese Maritime Customs and Administrator of the Lighthouse Department, 192...

Tibet is one of the largest gold producing countries in the world. The gold is found in streams and river beds and as seams in quartz rocks. Several temple musical instruments and some jewellery and teapots are contained in the Asian collection.Tibetan gold amulet set with turquoise