Muzeu Oriental Bratko Korçë

Bratko oriental art... ... (Area)

The “Bratko” Oriental Art Museum was opened in June 2003, fulfilling the dream of Demetrius Borjes (1903-1990) – artist, photographer and collector of Asian art and antiques. Borja was born in Korça, travelled around the world and settled in America. As an immigrant he personally experienced many of the struggles of the 20th century. Among some 432 artifacts, you can find a piano, Chinese altar, traditional Japanese clothing, traditional belts Chinese skirts, and Indonesian sword, European medals, Japanese paintings, oriental rugs, as well as various photographs that Borja acquired while serving in the UN Mission for the Balkans Reconstruction during 1945-46. The photographs found in the halls of the museum depict immediate post-war social and cultural history, as well as the important role played by General MacArthur in the economic and institutional reconstruction of Japan. In the words of archivist Zobel for Borian: “He was a genius. He came to this country with nothing; he managed to become famous through his work, and this shows his strong character.”