Searching the Soul of a Chinese Art Collector—The Joy, the Agony, and the Legend

Kenneth Chu and Betty Lo

The title chosen by Kenneth Chu and Betty Lo for their conversation clearly indicated the personal nature of their collection and the passion behind it. A wedding anniversary gift of a Han dynasty bronze mirror cast with fine motifs provided the inspiration that started their collection and helped establish their collecting criteria: objects should have high aesthetic value, be in good condition and be full of personal appeal.

This was but one of the many slides of their collection. Kenneth explained that metalwork predominates because they feel it to be a perfect combination of art and science, and because no other materials are so versatile. However, persuasive dealers and the aesthetic appeal of individual objects have led them to collect a great variety of objects ranging from Neolithic pottery to Ming dynasty jade.

Based in Hong Kong, Kenneth and Betty have developed strong relationships with the large number of dealers in Hollywood Road. The trust that has built up between them and the dealers over the years has enabled quick purchasing decisions and, in the case of one early belt hook, a purchase on the basis of a spoken recommendation — sight unseen.

The workshop event concentrated on the Liao dynasty and the objects that show the Qidan peoples' fascination for ornament. Calling them "traders, not raiders," Kenneth and Betty showed examples of the many animal designs that demonstrate the importance of hunting, falconry, and fishing to the Qidans.

Plans for the Kenneth Chu and Betty Lo collection (otherwise known as the Mengdiexuan collection) include the development of their current interest in inkstones. Continued expansion is assured; Kenneth stated that they would stop collecting only at their last breath.

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