About the Museum
One of San Francisco's great triumphs, the Asian Art Museum is the country’s largest museum dedicated exclusively to Asian art. With more than 18,000 exemplary treasures, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, South Asian, Southeast Asian and Himalayan arts are all well represented. The range extends back 6,000 years to the present day, bringing to life a dynamic web of diverse traditions. The museum's vision began in 1959 when Avery Brundage donated his unparalleled collection to the city; it culminated in 2003 with its new home, the majestically repurposed old Main Library in Civic Center – a glorious tribute. Complimentary self-guided multimedia tours are available in English, Spanish, French, Mandarin, Cantonese and Korean; or join one of the free docent tours offered throughout the day.
Read LessCollection Highlights
The Hindu Deity Parvati, Cambodia, 1000-1100
The Buddhist Deity Simhavaktra Dankini, Beijing or Vicinity, Hebei Province, China, c.1736-1795
Ewer with Lid, Korea, c.1050-1150
Ritual Vessel in the Shape of a Rhinoceros, Shouchang, Shandong Province, China, c.1100-1050 BCE
Seated Buddha, Three Kingdoms Period (221-419), China, c.221-419
