Works by modern master Xu Beihong to be auctioned online

The auction includes two bamboo paintings which are rarely seen in Xu's works on market. Xu himself amassed a collection of works by Zheng Banqiao, a noted bamboo painter active in the 18th century. In one of the painting made in 1943, Xu coupled the bamboo with a bird about to fly and calligraphic verses.

"It is a rare example in Xu's oeuvre to pair painting with calligraphy," said Xu Qingping, youngest son of Xu Beijong and honorary president of Peon Art Museum. "In the painting, the bamboo leaves wave gently, and the little sparrow seems to embrace whatever difficulty ahead. It shows perseverance and an unyielding spirit."