travel > Destinations > asia > Taiwan > Formosa Vintage Cafe

Formosa Vintage Cafe

TIME : 2016/2/17 16:42:29

Documenting Taiwan's hybrid social and cultural history is this delightful private collection of Lin Yu-fang, a former dentist turned curator. Pieces range from Japanese-era commercial posters to shell figurines, musical instruments, temple implements and decorative carvings saved from the wrecking ball. The oldest piece hails from the Dutch occupation of Taiwan.

Mr Lin's collection counts over 10,000 pieces, only a portion of which are on display at any time. You'll still see a lot on any visit, though, as almost every space in the cafe is utilised. Juxtapositions can be amusingly jarring, such as when you turn from examining a wooden torch used in Beiguan musical performances to playful statues of the patron god of prostitutes or a propaganda leaflet that urges children to 'eat mooncakes and kill communist bandits'.

The museum is free but stay for a coffee, best enjoyed on one of the old marble-topped round tables.

You Might Also Like

Most Popular