This catalogue explores New York's superlative private collections of Japanese, Chinese and Korean art through a broad and diverse selection of paintings, calligraphy, sculpture, ceramics, and lacquerware that reflect the highest achievements of the classical traditions of East Asian culture.

Leading authorities of Asian art discuss the objects within the dynamic context of East Asia as an enduring cultural sphere, offering an expanded view of the art of this region as it traversed national boundaries, transforming and being transformed in the process.