Connecting Art Histories  Guest Professorships

A distinguishing feature of the East Asian Art History program is the regular inclusion of courses taught by visiting professors—renowned experts from universities around the globe. The appointments broaden the range of topics and approaches students encounter and play a vital role in connecting them to an international academic network.  

Since its establishment in 2005, the Ishibashi Foundation Visiting Professorship for Japanese Art History has made it possible for the Institute of East Asian Art History to welcome a renowned scholar from Japan, the USA, or Europe each semester. The professorship is generously supported by the Ishibashi Foundation in Tokyo. In 2010, the Heidelberg University Medallion was awarded to the Ishibashi Foundation and its president, Ishibashi Hiroshi, in recognition of their outstanding and unwavering commitment to supporting the study of Japanese art history. 

In 2011, the Heinz Götze Visiting Professorship for Chinese Art History was established, making it possible for the institute to invite experts in the field once a year. The Heinz Götze Foundation is particularly committed to promoting the arts and culture of China. They generously offer funding opportunities for IKO students to conduct fieldwork abroad in addition to the professorship.