Priceless collection of Chinese paintings and calligraphy donated to Hong Kong Museum of Art by family of late philanthropist Ho Iu-kwong
Works from Song, Ming and Qing dynasties among 355 pieces that will feature in dedicated Chih Lo Lou Gallery
A priceless art collection featuring some of the finest examples of ancient Chinese paintings and calligraphy has been donated to the Hong Kong Museum of Art by a private studio linked to the late philanthropist Ho Iu-kwong.
The 355 pieces of art, which date from the Song dynasty about 1,000 years ago through to the 20th century, comprise one of the most valuable donations from a private collection to the government in recent years.
Considered priceless because of the rarity of many of the pieces, the museum’s curator, Szeto Yuen-kit said conservative estimates would value the collection in the billions of dollars.
“If we must give a price tag to the items, it is a conservative estimate that the donated pieces are worth HK$3.8 billion,” Szeto said.
“We are very thankful for the generous donation from the Ho family. It is undoubtedly one of the most important donations we received in recent years.”