Among the major collections of Japanese art in the United States, the Mary Griggs Burke Collection of New York excels not only for its peerless quality but also for reflecting the eye of a connoisseuse with a deep love of Japan's traditional culture.
Mary Burke was blessed to be born into a prominent family in St. Paul, Minn., that had longstanding connections with Japan as well as strong art-collecting interests. She was also fortunate in having available funds and the opportunity to travel in Japan during the 1950s and '60s, when masterpieces were still available and comparatively affordable.
Academic studies led her to associate with leading scholars of Japanese art who later advised her on purchases. Nevertheless, the final choices were decided with her eye and taste, and so this is above all, a very personal collection.
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