CityU Gallery exhibits artworks of Ming and Qing dynasties

The Chinese Civilisation Centre of City University of Hong Kong (CityU) is holding an exhibition entitled “The Works of the Visiting Artists from China in Edo Period” from 15 March to 27 April at CityU Gallery. About fifty artworks by Chinese artists visiting Japan from the end of Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644) to the Qing Dynasty (1644 - 1912) will be on display.

During this historic period, Japan implemented a closed-door policy prohibiting Japanese scholars and monks from travelling to China. Although they could not directly exchange ideas or learn about the concepts of Buddhism, legal and social statutes, there remained limited but important cultural, artistic and religious exchanges.

The exhibition is another demonstration of CityU’s continuous efforts to promote Chinese culture and arts. The displayed artworks include masterpieces such as the “Cursive Calligraphy of Self-written Verses” by Zen Master Duli and the “Natural Scenery” by Xinyue. The “Portrayal of Shen Quan” by Xu Zhang is an important artwork in the pantheon of Chinese painting, as it vividly depicts the noble and elegant expressions of the character with sophisticated painting techniques. Also, the background of the painting was added by Shen Quan himself.

The exhibit’s opening ceremony was held on 14 March, with officiating guests Mr Wong Kwan-shut, Connoisseur and collector of Chinese paintings and calligraphy; Mr Chu Chin-wing, Vice Chairman of Soka Gakkai International Hong Kong; Professor Richard Ho Yan-ki, Acting President of CityU and Professor Cheng Pei-kai, Director of CityU's Chinese Civilisation Centre.  

Professor Ho pointed out that it is a valuable opportunity to see all these artworks. “Aesthetic development is an integral element of CityU’s whole-person development philosophy,” Professor Ho said. “Through this exhibition, students can learn more about the development of art during Ming and Qing dynasties.”

Mr Wong said Japanese culture had been influenced by the Han culture since the Tang Dynasty (618 - 907) and they held the visiting Chinese artists in high regard. However, the artists who undertook their mission in an especially difficult time had not received their deserved attention in their motherland. Mr Wong hoped the exhibition could help more people understand the artists. “Showcasing their art not only helps us to learn more about their history, but also enhances the understanding of the deep-rooted cultural relationship between China and Japan,” said Mr Wong.

The exhibition of “The Works of the Visiting Artists from China in Edo Period” is held at CityU Gallery from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm daily.

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