A book series presentation ceremony for “A Comprehensive Collection of Ancient Chinese Paintings” and the inauguration of an exhibition on Song Dynasty paintings took place at the Exhibition Hall of the University of Macau (UM) Wu Yee Sun Library last Wednesday.
According to an exhibition statement, the book series, presented by Zhejiang University (ZJU) to the University of Macau, is a collaborative effort between Zhejiang University and the Cultural Relics Bureau of Zhejiang Province. The project, approved by President Xi Jinping in 2005, is a national cultural endeavour that encompasses a collection of 12,405 pieces or sets of ancient Chinese paintings on paper, silk and linen, the statement said, adding that the artworks are sourced from 263 museums and cultural institutions both domestically and internationally. The statement noted that the book series stands as the most comprehensive and expansive catalogue of Chinese paintings ever published.
The statement pointed out that the exhibition on Song Dynasty paintings, jointly organised by the Zhejiang Provincial People’s Government and both universities, was inaugurated concurrently with the book series presentation. The exhibition showcases about 80 high-fidelity reproductions of Song Dynasty paintings, along with Zhejiang intangible cultural heritage items, including a Longquan celadon*, Huzhou writing brush, and Xiling seal. Interactive experiences such as Zhejiang virtual reality (VR), Song Dynasty tea culture and block printing are also available on site.
The exhibition is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily until the end of this month. Admission is free.
* Longquan celadon (龍泉青瓷) is a type of green-glazed Chinese ceramic, known in the West as celadon or greenware, produced from about 950 to 1550.
– Photos: William Chan
