An unprecedented exhibition of China's most valuable national treasures, including the world famous painting Along the River During the Qingming Festival from the Song Dynasty, opened at the Hong Kong Museum of Art Thursday to mark the 10th anniversary of Hong Kong's return.

The exhibition is one of the most important events among hundreds of activities celebrating the anniversary, a gift from the central government, said Donald Tsang, chief executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), while officiating at the opening ceremony.

Titled "The Pride of China: Masterpieces of Chinese Painting and Calligraphy of the Jin, Tang, Song, and Yuan Dynasties from the Palace Museum", the exhibition will present 32 world-acclaimed masterpieces of Chinese painting and calligraphy preserved by China's national art collector, including the most valuable pieces that are seldom on display for the public.

The exhibition will last for over one month in two phases, with highlights including Zhang Zeduan's Along the River During the Qingming Festival of the Northern Song Dynasty, Wang Xun's Letter to Boyuan of the Jin Dynasty, and Zhao Ji's Auspicious Dragon Rock of the Northern Song Dynasty.

"This is the first time for so many priceless art pieces to be shown outside the Chinese mainland because most of them are too old and delicate to survive transportation," said Zheng Xinmiao, vice-minister of culture and curator of the Palace Museum.

"The exhibition was specially approved for the celebration of the 10th anniversary of Hong Kong's return and I believe the people of Hong Kong will enjoy and cherish those masterpieces from Chinese history," Zheng added.

(Xinhua News Agency June 29, 2007)