Explore our Permanent Collection.

Beads

Beads date to the origins of humankind. They have served as currency, conveyed social and political messages, and expressed human creativity.

Africa Rocks

This selection of African art is inspired by the San Diego Zoo’s new Africa Rocks exhibit! Continue your journey through Africa by exploring their new habitats, which spotlight the amazing biodiversity found on the African continent.

Mid-Century Marvels

Mid-century design is characterized by clean lines and a spirit of experimentation.

Form Follows Function?

Some objects reveal their intended functions immediately; other functions are more difficult to decipher.

Feast

The word feast evokes enticing aromas and tastes, enjoyed as part of a communal, ceremonial event or perhaps a private, domestic one.

Japan

Japanese art forms the core of the Museum’s mingei holdings, with more than 3,000 items.

Textiles

Hand-sewn and machine-made rugs, coverings, flags, and garments exhibit a stunning variety of embroidery, dyeing, and weaving techniques.

Jewelry

The Museum’s 3,000-piece jewelry collection features examples of embossing, chasing, repoussé, and engraving.

American Quilts

Nearly 400 pieced and appliqued quilts exhibit colorful patterns, geometric designs, and regional variations.

Play!

Whether literal playthings or whimsical feats of the imagination, toys manifest humanity’s innate creativity and sense of humor.

Staff Pick

Mingei staff loves the Museum's collection just as much as our visitors and fans. This is a collection of just a few of our favorites.

Artful Animals

Whether realistic or stylized, beastly or human-like, animal forms have appeared in art since prehistoric times, and continue to be a popular source of inspiration for artistic endeavors worldwide. Sometimes they are shown in their natural habitat, other times they are anthropomorphized, but whether realistic or stylized, artful animals remind us of our connection to our earthly companions.