A stark contrast to the muddy waters it grows in, the lotus is a beautiful flower that has a particular significance in East Asia. It is often used as a motif in paintings and artisanal works to symbolize life fulfillment or the affection between men and women, and it is also the emblem of kunshi, the princely ideal of Confucianism.

Many interpretations of the lotus flower are revealed through approximately 60 ceramic works from the museum's collection, which are being shown alongside the contemporary photographs of Tomohiro Muda; April 12-July 27.

The Museum of Oriental Ceramics, Osaka; 1-1-26 Nakanoshima, Kita-ku, Osaka. Naniwabashi Stn. 9:30 a.m.- 5 p.m. ¥600. Closed Mon. 06-6223-0055; www.moco.or.jp