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125 East 65th St
212-744-8181
Mao's Golden Mangoes and the Cultural Revolution
September 18, 2014 – April 26, 2015
Around half a century ago during the Cultural Revolution (1966 – 1976), China was in a
political “mango-fever.” In 1968, after receiving a gift of mangoes from the visiting Pakistani
foreign minister, Mao Zedong sent the fruit to the “Worker-Peasant Mao Zedong Thought Propaganda
Teams.” It coincided with a turning point in the Cultural Revolution from student-leading to
worker-peasant-leading. Mangoes, an unfamiliar fruit at that time in China, became a temporary
political symbol of Chairman Mao’s benevolence and love for the people. Illustrations and photos
of mangoes appeared in publications, paintings, posters and badges, as well as on everyday
objects such as mirrors, quilt covers and enamelware. Wax mango models were displayed in glass
boxes to express respect for Mao, along with circumstances of the gift printed in red on the
cases. By showcasing over 80 mango-related objects, Mao’s Golden Mangoes and the Cultural
Revolution will explore the interaction o f material culture and politics during this period.
China Institute Gallery is open daily from 10AM - 5PM, and stays open with FREE ADMISSION until
8PM on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Regular admission cost is $7 for adults, $4 for students and
seniors, and children under 12 are free.
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