'Culture in Focus' exhibition opens at Shanghai Jia Art

english.shanghai.gov.cn| April 22, 2026

A major art exhibition titled Culture in Focus is captivating visitors at Shanghai Jia Art, a petal-shaped architectural landmark along the Suzhou Creek in the Putuo district.

The exhibition features over 100 works spanning 3,000 years, from Shang Dynasty (c.16th century-11th century BC) oracle bones to contemporary paintings. Among the highlights is the Xi Jia Pan, a Western Zhou Dynasty (c.11th century-771 BC) bronze vessel sold for 212 million yuan (about $31.09 million) in 2017, which reportedly was once used as a pancake griddle by a cook during the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368).

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The Xi Jia Pan, a Western Zhou bronze vessel, is among the highlights of the exhibition. [Photo/Shanghai Putuo Media Center]
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​​Shang Dynasty oracle bone inscriptions offer a glimpse into life in ancient China. [Photo/Shanghai Putuo Media Center]

Other notable exhibits include Shang Dynasty oracle bone inscriptions, a Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) vase with a rotating interior, and works by Qi Baishi and Xu Beihong. Breaking away from his well-known horse depictions, Xu showcases his mastery of realism in the Twelve Zodiac Animals, while Qi's majestic eagle painting includes an inscription praying for peace.

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​A framed triptych by Qi Baishi, featuring a central ink and color painting of an eagle resting on a pine branch, flanked by a four-character seal script calligraphic couplet. [Photo/Shanghai Putuo Media Center]
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​A contemporary painting titled Hello! How are you?, depicting a smiling girl holding a cactus, has become a visitor favorite. [Photo/Shanghai Putuo Media Center]

Visitors can also view the highly rare authentic calligraphy piece by Song Dynasty (960-1279) historian Sima Guang, alongside vivid oil paintings capturing the nostalgic 20th-century streetscapes of old Shanghai.

If you go

When: Through Sept 30

Where: Shanghai Jia Art, No 51, Alley 677, Zhongjiang Road, Putuo district

Reservation: Scan the QR code below to access the official Jia Art WeChat mini program and make reservations.

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Source: Official WeChat account of Shanghai Putuo Media Center