Pioneer of modern Chinese painting

Xu, born in 1895, is hailed as the "father of modern Chinese painting" for combining both Oriental and Western styles in his works and mentoring generations of Chinese artists.

The curriculum designed by Xu continues to guide several prestigious Chinese art schools.

After learning Chinese painting and calligraphy from his father, a self-taught painter, Xu spent eight years studying arts in Europe. His diverse education background helped him in creating art works with a well-balanced integration of realism and impressionism.

Xu was a master of both oils and Chinese ink. In his three-decade-long career Xu made thousands of oil paintings, traditional Chinese paintings and calligraphic works. Preserving these art treasures is the top priority for the museum.

"Different types of works require different environment for preservation, both in temperature and humidity. We've set up various subareas and installed modern constant temperature and humidity air conditioning systems inside," said Wang Hongying, secretary of the Museum.