My Visit to the National Museum of African Art

After our long walk through the city of D.C. we took an Uber to the National Mall. The first Smithsonian museum that we visited was the National Museum of African Art.

When you walk into the museum…

Reliquary guardian figure, late 19th century to early 20th century

Stool, mid to late 19th century




Door and Frame, Swahili artist, Tanzania

19th century, wood and metal

Amhara artist, Ethiopia

Shield, early 19th century

Somali artisit, Mocadishu, Somalia

Necklace with amulet case
Mid 20th century

silver alloy, plant fiber, synthetic amber


One of my favorites its called “Monkeys Grasp for the Moon”. 
by Xu Bling (b. 1955)



Here is how to read it…
This is an oil lamp, bowl with cover and ewer. 
They are all from the Angkor period (11th-13th century). 

The best blue and white collection I have ever seen.
18th century 

This is called the “Princess from the Land of Porcelain”.
James McNeill Whistler (1834-1903)

Oil on canvas
Nepal, 1082
Gilt copper with semiprecious stones and traces of vermilion






This was a massive collection of pottery.

This was a pretty peony floral arrangement and it was real!!
It was a great visit and I am glad we were able to squeeze this in. I really enjoyed the blue and white exhibit. It was my favorite!
(photos via Mrs. Shockley)



2 replies
  1. Shery G
    Shery G says:

    You were able to take some great pictures. What an exquisite blue and white collection. This museum is a must see when my family and I make a visit. So happy that I can live through your pics until then!

    • Mrs. Shockley
      Mrs. Shockley says:

      Yes, the blue and white exhibit was huge! They also had small vases and ginger jars too but I didn't want to make this blog post too long. You will definitely love the museum. It is a sight to see!

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