HONG KONG.- Following the encouraging results of its autumn sale last year, New Art Est-Ouest Auctions unveiled a remarkable selection of 158 fine Chinese paintings in its Hong Kong Spring Auction on 29 March 2025. The star lot of the sale is Letters from the Ming Dynasty from the exquisite private collection of Tsuyoshi Inukai (1855-1932). Appearing at auction for the first time, this significant work reflects the collector’s strong passion and discerning eye for art. Also on offer are over 100 works from the late Qing Dynasty to the early 1980s including pivotal pieces by the masters of the late Qing and Republican-era literati. A special highlight is a group of paintings meticulously assembled by Hong Kong collectors in the 1980s. Public viewing will take place from 18 to 28 March on 7/F at H Queen’s.

Known as Mútáng and commonly referred to as Senjiro, Inukai was once a journalist and chief editor who emerged as a significant political figure during Japan's Meiji, Taisho, and Showa eras. He later ascended to the role of the 29th Prime Minister of Japan. His deep appreciation for Chinese calligraphy, paintings, and antiques, along with his extensive study of Chinese culture had earned him the title of “Master of Calligraphy” in the Japanese political circles. Letters from the Ming Dynasty (Estimate: HK$1,000,000-1,500,000) was acquired by him in Shanghai and embodies Inukai's refined sensibilities and appreciation for these art forms.

Ms Elaine Zhang, the head of sale, Chinese Paintings Department, China region, at New Art Est-Ouest Auctions said: “The collection of Letters from the Ming Dynasty comprises six volumes of Ming letters acquired by Inukai during his travels in 1912. The third volume sold previously at auction had created a sensation among collectors worldwide. However, the complete set has remained elusive, leaving a palpable sense of disappointment in the collector community. In our upcoming sale, we are privileged to present five of the six volumes which have never been offered at auction. Exquisitely mounted and in excellent condition, these rare treasures are expected to arouse great interest among collectors.”

All the five volumes of the collection on offer have survived the ravages of time and remained well preserved. It features an unparalleled assembly of works from over forty esteemed figures, including Wen Zhengming, Wang Shouren, Zhu Yunming, Tang Yin and Dong Qichang — giants in the realms of literature and painting including both court officials and reclusive scholars. Over time, letters transcended their original function as mere correspondence and evolved into vehicles for expressing personal feelings. They vividly documented the social culture and academic interactions of the era, making them highly valuable for historical research.

The magnificence and breadth of these five volumes rightfully crown the scholarly correspondence of the Ming dynasty. It showcases a rich spectrum of calligraphic styles, reflecting the sophisticated interplay of calligraphy, paper selection, seals, and inscriptions. A collection that embodies both literary and artistic excellence is truly exceptional and rarely seen on the market.