Rare Van Gogh work on show in HK ahead of US auction
A Van Gogh painting unseen for over 60 years is on display in Hong Kong before a Sotheby's auction in New York, where it may sell for about US$180 million. The exhibition supports the city's goal of becoming a high-end art trading hub.
A Vincent van Gogh painting that has been out of the public eye for more than 60 years is being exhibited in Hong Kong, ahead of a Sotheby's auction in New York where it is expected to fetch about US$180 million.
The artwork, “Châtaigniers en fleurs,” painted in May 1890, has drawn hundreds of visitors, including cross-border travellers from neighbouring Shenzhen, according to The Standard.
The exhibition comes as the government aims to develop Hong Kong into a hub for high-end art trading, using its role as a platform for cultural exchange between China and the rest of the world.
Leveraging its proximity to the mainland Chinese market, the city showcases its ability to connect global collectors, auction houses and art institutions, while facilitating the exhibition of rare artworks in Asia.
Beyond high-value transactions, the industry supports professional services in art logistics, insurance, restoration and curation, creating opportunities for financial and creative sectors, the report said.
Furthermore, such cultural events are also expected to stimulate local tourism, benefiting the hospitality and retail sectors.