Conservation Cart Talk | Preserving Japanese Folding Screens
At our gallery cart, conservators demonstrate how paper hinges are attached to Japanese folding screens—a technique that lets panels open and close. Alongside this demonstration, learn about the full remounting process, from dismantling the old structure to creating a new one and reattaching the artwork. Explore tools and materials, see detailed models, and ask questions about this important work. Department of Conservation and Scientific Research, National Museum of Asian Art, Smithsonian Institution.
Venue: Asian Art Museum, West Building. Building: West Building. Event Location: Gallery 5. Cost: Free. No registration or tickets (walk-up only). Categories: Lectures & Discussions. Demonstrations. Gallery Talks & Tours. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Assisted listening devices.
Friday, February 13, 2026, 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM.
Conservation Cart Talk | Jade Explained
What can science tell us about jade? Join conservation scientist Matthew Clarke to explore how mineral analysis reveals clues about origin, manufacture, and transformation over centuries. Scientific techniques shine light—figurative and literal—on why these stones appear in such a range of colors and patterns. Handle jade samples and see how research deepens our understanding of these objects. Image: Department of Conservation and Scientific Research, National Museum of Asian Art, Smithsonian Institution.
Venue: Asian Art Museum, West Building. Building: West Building. Event Location: Gallery 19. Cost: Free. No registration or tickets (walk-up only). Categories: Celebrations. Lectures & Discussions. Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: Afterlife: Ancient Chinese Jades. Accessibility: Assisted listening devices. Wheelchair accessible.
Saturday, February 21, 2026, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM.