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)