Collecting Chinese Ceramics—From Tourist to Trustee

Dr. and Mrs. Marvin L. Gordon

Pat and Marvin Gordon's response to the first question in the 2003 Curator’s Circle series set the tone for their conversation with curator Ronald Otsuka. When asked, "Why collect Song dynasty ceramics?" Pat Gordon didn't hesitate to reply, "Because of their beauty—their glorious glazes and simple shapes." Marvin agreed completely.

During their two-day visit, it became clear that such happy concord has distinguished the Gordons' history as collectors. The simplicity of color and form in Song ceramics appeals to both of them. And they both enjoy researching the provenance of their pieces through illustrations and descriptions in catalogs and collection records.

Clearly, such research is a key element to their success. Since their first purchase as curious tourists in Shanghai, the Gordons have evolved into highly regarded collectors who hold positions on various boards and committees at the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco. Based on their slide presentation, it's clear that much information from their reading and conversations with dealers has been committed to memory and continues to serve them well.

But Marvin was careful to emphasize that putting together a collection requires more than book learning, discussions, and museum visits. The most useful learning method, he believes, is frequent attendance at auctions and art fairs. These events provide an opportunity to pick up the objects, feel them, hold them up to the light, and gain a greater appreciation than one can get from simply admiring objects behind glass.

Through their years of handling objects, the Gordons have developed the ability to distinguish genuine objects from forgeries. With the best forgers now using a combination of computer-assisted design and traditional firing techniques, this sixth sense is often required. Not wishing to dishearten new collectors in the audience, Marvin mentioned objects that had fooled him and his wife, as well as other dealers. He stressed the importance of acquiring objects with a reliable provenance.

In the workshop, the Gordons provided an opportunity for tactile learning by sharing seven objects from their collection—including two examples of the Jun ware, one of Marvin's favorites. The Gordons display a larger of example of Jun ware in their home and Marvin confessed that he often longs to pick it up and hold it in his hands. Local lovers of Song ceramics took advantage of the opportunity to share this feeling and to enjoy the glazes and shapes that have fired the passion for collecting in this inspirational couple.

Return to top