At 83-year-old, Robert Yuan just may be the eldest photographer to hold a solo exhibition in Shanghai.

His exhibit, "Robert Yuan's Landscape Photo Show," which ends today at the Shanghai Library, has attracted thousands of visitors during its weeklong run.

The nearly 190 photos chronicle the basic spirit of man in his need to explore. Yuan, a self-made photography supplies tycoon, does just that in chronicling his love of traveling the world.

"I have been to about 200 cities in 68 countries in Europe, Africa and America," Yuan said.

"I feel very excited that the rolls of films I took can be finally unveiled to the public at my age."

Born in neighboring Zhejiang Province, he left his hometown for Shanghai at 16.

He made his fortune in the city by opening Guanlong Photograph & Equipment Shop, one of the most well-known photo equipment stores, in 1948.

Seven years later, Yuan left China to expand his business in Southeast Asia.

Guo jinrong, deputy president at the Shanghai Photographers' Association, said that in recent years the reclusive Yuan spent a lot of time in Shanghai after many years away.

"Every year, he would go to the Guanlong shop, which is still located on Nanjing Road, to meet some of his old colleagues," Guo said.

"I have profound feelings toward Shanghai no matter where I go," Yuan said.

"He has been very supportive of local charity foundations. Since 2000, Yuan has donated some 8 million yuan (US$963,855) to the Shanghai Charity Foundation."

In keeping with that spirit, all the photos on display at the exhibition will be auctioned later for charity.

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