Museo d'Arte Orientale, MAO - Image 1

Torino,Italy

Museo d'Arte Orientale, MAO

MuseumOpen17th CenturyModern

The Museo d'Arte Orientale (MAO) is housed within the Palazzo Mazzonis, a 17th-century aristocratic residence in the heart of Turin. The museum serves as a primary repository for Asian art in Italy, featuring a collection of approximately 2,200 works that span the cultural and artistic traditions of the Asian continent, ranging from the Gandhara region to Japan.

The museum's layout is organized into thematic galleries that explore the religious, social, and aesthetic dimensions of Asian civilizations. The building itself underwent significant restoration to adapt its historic architecture for the display of delicate artifacts, creating a dialogue between the Baroque structure and the diverse cultural heritage housed within its walls.

Key Facts

Materials
Brick, Stone, Stucco
Civilization
Various Asian cultures
Accessibility
Fully accessible with elevators
Date(s)
17th century (Palazzo Mazzonis)
Condition
Restored and active museum
Original Function
Aristocratic residence
Key Figures
Mazzonis family

Palazzo Mazzonis Origins

17th century

The building was originally constructed as a private residence for the Mazzonis family, a prominent local dynasty. It reflects the architectural style of Turin's aristocratic palaces of the period.

Transformation into a Museum

2008

Following extensive restoration work, the Palazzo Mazzonis was inaugurated as the Museo d'Arte Orientale in 2008, centralizing various Asian art collections previously held by the Civic Museum of Ancient Art.

Contemporary Development

21st century

The museum continues to expand its collection and research initiatives, hosting temporary exhibitions that focus on contemporary Asian art alongside its permanent historical displays.

Cultural Significance

The MAO plays a critical role in fostering intercultural dialogue between Italy and Asia. By providing a dedicated space for the study and appreciation of Eastern traditions, it serves as a bridge for understanding the historical and philosophical developments of civilizations from the Near East to the Far East.

Interpretive Notes

Scholarly debates and areas of uncertainty

Discussions within the museum community often focus on the challenges of contextualizing diverse Asian artifacts within a European Baroque architectural setting, and the ongoing efforts to balance traditional historical curation with contemporary artistic perspectives.

Visiting Information

Entry Rules

Open Tuesday through Sunday. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online. Modest dress is not strictly enforced, but visitors are expected to maintain a quiet demeanor appropriate for a museum environment.

Best Times to Visit

Weekday mornings are generally quieter. The museum is a popular destination during the winter months and for special temporary exhibition openings.

Photography

Personal photography is permitted without flash or tripods. Professional photography requires prior authorization from the museum administration.

Preservation Notes

Maintain a respectful distance from all artifacts. Flash photography is strictly prohibited to protect light-sensitive materials. Food and drink are not permitted in the galleries.

Nearby POIs

11 shown

Sources & Further Reading

  1. [1]
    MAO Museo d'Arte Orientale: Guida alle collezioni — Fondazione Torino Musei. Silvana Editoriale (2008)View
  2. [2]
    Torino: Il Palazzo Mazzonis e il MAO — AA.VV.. Umberto Allemandi & C. (2009)