CUHK Research: Changing the world

Preserving the legacy of ancient Chinese art “In the past, scholars were particularly interested in the research into bronze ware. Gold techniques were rarely discussed,” says Professor Xu Xiaodong, Associate Director of the CUHK’s Art Museum. “As early as 2007, we curated the Museum’s first gold exhibition – Celestial Creations: Art of the Chinese Goldsmith, the Cheng Xun Tang Collection , followed by another one in 2013 from the Mengdiexuan Collection.” The Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group was intrigued by the exhibitions and sponsored a more profound project – Gold Techniques: Art of the Chinese Goldsmiths . The two- phase project, co-organised with the Chow Tai Fook Master Studio since 2014, was led by Professor Xu and Dr Tong Yu, Associate Curator of the Museum. The second phase in early 2023 spotlighted gold and silver inlay, damascene, and the production and use of gold wire, alongside hammer-chiselling, casting and prevision gold soldering. “We hope to present a revival of ancient Chinese gold craftsmanship to the public, especially to a younger group of audience, to preserve the legacy of these delicate and precious skills,” says Dr Tong. CUHK’s Art Museum is renowned for its quality exhibitions and research. The hard work from generations of peers also makes the Museum a top-tier one. “We adopt an interdisciplinary approach involving the collaboration of three parties – gold masters from Chow Tai Fook, testing centres and the Art Museum. The artistry of gold demonstrates the early cultural exchange between East and West in Eurasia,” says Professor Xu. By conducting archaeological a n d h i s t o r i c a l s t u d i e s , r e s t o r a t i o n experiments and scientific testing, the project examines gold pieces and techniques from multiple perspective, unveiling valuable craftsmanship that can stand the test of time. From September 2023 to August 2028, the Museum will prepare for the third phase of this project. CUHK’s tireless efforts in delivering outstanding art research has earned trust and support from collectors vital in driving the industry forward. “The Art Museum maintains a friendly relationship with Hong Kong collectors. We exchange thoughts and they donate their collections. A virtuous cycle is created,” says Dr Tong, grateful for the collectors’ generous donations. Apart from ancient Chinese gold craftsmanship, the two academics have also been involved in other projects of the Museum, probing into the history of enamels, imperial arts, and artistic interaction between ancient China and the West. Looking forward, they hope to further cultivate, promote and preserve Chinese art history to integrate traditional artistry with modern techniques. I hope tobring theChinese perspective of art to the international stage. Professor Chan 40