^{Discover how delicate sherds of porcelain reveal a surprisingly global story at the heart of early Jamestown during a members-only guided tour.}

Exclusive guided tour 

Join us for a members-only tour of “Following the Dragon: Chinese Ming Porcelain in Early Jamestown,” led by Jamestown Senior Curator Dr. Bly Straube, on June 23 at 10 a.m. This tour offers an intimate look at the remarkable global connections revealed through Ming porcelain uncovered at the 1607–1625 fort site at Historic Jamestowne.

During the tour, Dr. Straube will share insights into the Chinese porcelain vessels discovered through archaeological excavations. The exhibition brings together 31 excavated pieces with their complete counterparts borrowed from museums and private collections around the world. Among the highlights is a rare Ming bottle with gilt-bronze mounts — one of only three known to exist — on loan for the first time from the Royal Collection and typically displayed at Buckingham Palace. Its elegant depiction of the fenghuang, a mythical bird symbolizing joy, peace, and sincerity, is shown alongside fragments of a matching bottle unearthed at Jamestown.

Together, these objects illuminate how early Virginians acquired and used such extraordinary global goods, offering a deeper understanding of status, trade, and cultural exchange in the early 17th-century colony. This guided tour provides members with a unique opportunity to explore the exhibition’s stories, symbolism, and discoveries directly with one of the curators who helped bring it to life.

Not a member yet? Memberships start at just $65 for an individual! Learn more about our membership levels and benefits.

Members - register now to attend

To reserve your spot, please register using the email address associated with your membership. If you’re not sure which email you used, or if you need help updating it, the Development Office can assist. For help, call (757) 253-4139 or email giving@jyf.virginia.gov.