The 2025 Shanghai Council Autumn Auctions open today and will run through December 18 at the Dragon Banquet Hall of the Shanghai Longemont Hotel.

More than 1,000 items, including traditional Chinese ink-wash paintings, calligraphy, Buddha statues, ancient coins, and bronze mirrors, will be auctioned.

Literati painting is a fundamental aspect of traditional Chinese ink-wash painting, embodying one of the most refined and philosophically rich traditions in Chinese art. Unlike professional court or decorative paintings, literati painting was produced by scholar-officials – educated individuals who painted primarily for self-expression, intellectual exchange, and personal cultivation, rather than for commercial purposes or imperial commissions. This art form flourished particularly during the Song (960–1279), Yuan (1271–1368), Ming (1368–1644), and Qing (1644–1912) dynasties.

Wu Guanzhong's "The Grove" uniquely bridged Eastern ink traditions with Western modernism, creating a poetic visual language focused on "formal beauty." This painting features a graceful composition that exemplifies his skill in distilling nature into rhythmic, abstract forms.

The section of "Zen Spirit" focuses on Buddhist art and censers. The exquisite statues and ritual objects from various regions and periods harmonize sacred solemnity with classical elegance.

The autumn auctions include ancient coins and bronze mirrors. Each coin depicts economic life, political change, and cultural exchange of the time. Bronze mirrors, once daily objects, reflect their time's aesthetics, craftsmanship, and spirituality.

Preview:

Date: 9am-5pm, December 16, 17

Auction:

Date: 9am, December 18

Venue: Shanghai Longemont Hotel

Address: 6F, No.1116 Yan'an Rd W.

长宁区延安西路1116号6楼