One hundred and forty-two pieces of European art?that
arrived in Shanghai under tight security are on display from
November 18 to January 5. It is reported that the total insurance
premium for these treasures is around 125 million yuan (US$15
million).
A specialized van carrying 142 European art treasures worth 200
million yuan arrived at Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall on
the night of November 15 with the greatest care and under tight
security.
They include 17 ceramic works by Pablo Picasso, 48 sculptures
and engravings by Joan Miro, as well as 77 posters by French
artists.
Huaxie International Fine Art Freight Services, China's only
professional fine arts carriers, sent seven people to accompany the
works. The custom designed shockproof van is equipped with an air
mattress, and the temperature inside is maintained at 16oC.
The crates were unpacked according to the instructions of French
technicians and the pieces immediately positioned for display to
avoid unnecessary movement. Each work was uniquely packaged for
optimum protection; for instance, Miro's sculpture "Femme" was
boxed in sponge layers and held in place with specially designed
brackets.
The insurance premiums are said to total 125 million yuan (US$15
million), with Jules Cheret's "Theatre de l'Opera" covered for
US$9,140 and Picasso's "Woman's Face," a turned vase, covered for
over US$5,800.
Not surprisingly, the exhibition hall has doubled its usual
contingent of guards to watch over them.
They will be exhibited from November 18 to January 5.
Information:
Open: 9:00 AM?-- 4:00 PM
Admission: 25 yuan
Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall
Add: 100 Renmin Avenue, Shanghai
Tel: 86-21-63184477
(China.org.cn by Wang Qian, November 18, 2004)
