| Museum's Purpose and Spirit
In the land of southern Taiwan, within a serene and modern building, lies a vast collection of exquisite and elegant European porcelain, crafted over centuries. In today's fast-paced world, people have long forgotten what it means to dedicate a lifetime to perfecting a single craft. Yet, every piece of porcelain art in this museum embodies that very dedication, allowing it to be cherished even a hundred years later.
It is rare to witness Europe's finest craftsmanship in Taiwan. However, consider this — 400 years ago, Taiwan was a key transit hub for global porcelain trade. Now, 400 years later, being able to admire the world's most stunning porcelain collection right here in Taiwan is truly a remarkable experience.
Ishikawa Media Group has been collecting European antique porcelain for many years and has now established a dedicated museum to showcase these treasures. We invite you to visit and immerse yourself in the brilliance of art and the depth of its legacy. Li Porcelain Art Museum welcomes you.
| The Five Great Royal Kilns of European Porcelain & Porcelain Knowledge
The Five Great Royal Kilns of European Porcelain
The five most renowned European porcelain brands exhibit their exquisite artistry here: the grandeur and vision of Meissen, the delicate elegance of KPM, the unique aesthetic of Sèvres, the rustic charm of Royal Worcester, and the opulent brilliance of Royal Vienna. Each is a breathtaking feast for the eyes, unforgettable upon first sight. These masterfully crafted pieces, adorned with rich cultural sentiment, continually resonate with the soul. From Decorative Arts, Art Nouveau, Belle Époque, Rococo, all the way back to Baroque, these porcelain masterpieces epitomize the intricate beauty of human artistic pursuit. Especially in antique porcelain, beyond its exquisite craftsmanship, the warmth and patina imparted by time make it truly irreplaceable.
The Origins of Porcelain
Chinese porcelain was introduced to the West via the Silk Road over a thousand years ago. European elites were astounded by this masterpiece from the East, leading to a frenzy of admiration and acquisition. Chinese porcelain became immensely valuable, earning the title "White Gold." Possessing porcelain became a symbol of prestige among royalty, aristocrats, and wealthy merchants. Fueled by royal patronage, porcelain production spurred intense competition and intrigue among European nations.
The turning point in European porcelain history occurred in early 18th-century Saxony, in its capital, Dresden, Germany. Through accidental discoveries by alchemists, kaolin clay and high-temperature kiln firing led to the creation of Europe's first true hard-paste porcelain. Soon after, the Meissen porcelain factory was established, becoming the envy of the world. However, driven by high rewards, Meissen's trade secrets were leaked, leading to the rapid emergence of porcelain factories across Europe.
By the mid-18th century, the center of European porcelain shifted from Meissen to France's Sèvres. The luxurious Rococo style of French royal porcelain became the pinnacle of European porcelain art, widely imitated by other nations.
Throughout history, European porcelain has been inextricably linked to royalty. Not only were the materials carefully selected, but the craftsmanship also grew increasingly intricate. The fusion of porcelain manufacturers and chemists led to innovations in glazes and pigments, creating a rich and diverse palette for porcelain painting. Over time, European porcelain surpassed its Chinese predecessors, profoundly influencing the global evolution of porcelain art.
For centuries, Europe's finest porcelain has been revered, with prestigious brands such as Meissen (Germany), Sèvres (France), Royal Worcester (UK), KPM (Germany), and Royal Vienna (Austria). This museum invites you to step into the opulent artistic realm of 19th-century European royalty and experience its timeless elegance firsthand.
| Distinctive Characteristics of Porcelain Brands
Meissen
The oldest porcelain brand in Europe, Meissen has explored the deepest and broadest range of themes. As the pioneer of European porcelain, it offers not only exquisite craftsmanship but also a profound cultural perspective that spans the world.
KPM (Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur)
Known for its porcelain plaques that resemble true paintings, KPM delivers an unparalleled level of precision and refinement. Its intricate production process preserves masterful painting techniques in the timeless form of porcelain.
Sèvres
With its uniquely French sense of fashion, Sèvres exudes a bold and unconventional aesthetic. Its exquisite artistry evokes the elegance and joy of noble salons, where aristocrats once gathered in laughter and celebration.
Royal Worcester
Unlike traditional portrait paintings, Royal Worcester focuses on fruit, flowers, animals, and grand estates, reflecting the historical rise of still life and landscape painting in European art.
Royal Vienna
Taking decorative artistry to its peak, Royal Vienna fascinates with its lavish gold-trimmed designs, legendary figures, and mythological themes. Each piece invites admiration, drawing viewers into its world with an irresistible charm.
| Visit Us
Opening Hours:
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed Days:
Every Monday(Closed days may vary during consecutive holidays)
| Tickets
General Admission :
NT$350
Group Discount Admission :
NT$280
Groups of 12 or more
Discount Admission :
NT$300
People with disability certificates
Students holding valid student ID
*Children under 7 years old are not allowed to enter
*Children aged 7-12 must be accompanied by at least one parent
| Location
No. 926, Minzu 1st Rd, Zuoying District, Kaohsiung City, 803