Crow Collection of Asian Art

Trammell and Margaret Crow bought their first piece of Asian art in the mid-1960s, and from that initial purchase has evolved a distinguished collection featuring pieces from China, Japan, India and Southeastern Asia, spanning 3500 B.C. to the early 20th century. The Trammell and Margaret Crow Collection of Asian Art opened to the general public as a permanent museum in December 1998, at 2010 Flora in the Arts District of downtown Dallas.

The Crows have traveled extensively throughout the world, but Asia is a favorite destination. "Our first visit to China came in 1976 right before Chairman Mao Tse-tung died," Mrs. Crow said. "Very few foreigners were allowed inside China at that time, but we received permission because of Dallas Market Center's involvement with the Canton Trade Fair."

Tight restrictions on exports from China prevented the Crows from making many direct buys of art during their 14 subsequent visits to the country. The majority of their collection has been obtained from individual purchases through private dealers and auction houses, as well as through the acquisition of major collections, such as the highly respected Morrie A. Moss collection. In total, the Crow family has amassed more than 4,000 pieces of Asian art, among which the 569 best were selected, after extensive analysis, by a noted curator for inclusion in The Crow Collection.

"Trammell has always loved Chinese art; it fascinates him, especially jade," Mrs. Crow said. "And I've always appreciated English décor, which has been influenced by the Chinese for centuries. So it was very easy for us to develop this partnership, this love for Asian art."

Pieces from Japan, India and other Southeast Asian counties were added as the Crows traveled to those countries as well. Their children's interest in Asian art also grew, particularly in their son, Trammell S. Crow, who now serves as president of the Crow Family Foundation and oversees the development of The Crow Collection. His interest was spurred while studying Chinese religion and history at Yale University. He has since traveled extensively throughout Asia and has acquired numerous works of art from his travels.

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