Milan showcases a century of Chinese art
Among the objects of historical significance featured in the show are rare photographs of Chinese royalty from the 1900s. These offer glimpses into the private and public lives of the Qing Empress Dowager Cixi as well as the last Chinese emperor, Puyi, and his wife, Empress Wanrong. Also on display are specimens of traditional qipao and colorful posters from the "cultural revolution" (1966-76).
The exhibition also includes sections on calligraphy and ink art. Many of these artworks celebrate the natural world. For me, a luminous flower inked by Zeng Xiang (b 1958) stood out for its spare and contemplative beauty.
It's great to see works by a number of contemporary masters of this ancient craft under one roof. As Confucius says: "Studying the past will help you to define the future."
