Shitao Masterpiece for Christie’s Hong Kong Sale

A masterpiece valued at HK$120 million/US$15,480,000 by Ming Dynasty Chinese classical painting master Shitao (1642–1707) will be offered by leading international auction house Christie’s at its Hong Kong Spring Sales on May 28th. Shitao, a renowned scholar-artist, was one of the most influential painters of his time and had a profound effect on the artistic development of subsequent Chinese ink and brush artists, including early 20th century masters such as Zhang Daqian) and Fu Baoshi. This exceptional album of 8 leaves, ink and colour on paper, entitled Landscapes Inspired by Du Fu’s Poetic Sensibilities and estimated at HK$120 million/US$15,480,000, is the most valuable Chinese painting ever to be presented at auction in Hong Kong. This work is among a group of over 400 rare and exceptional Chinese paintings and calligraphy works valued in total over HK$350 million (US$45 million), to be offered at Christie’s Hong Kong 2010 Spring sales.