Vannotti Franco, Wang Jiqian - "Chinese Fan Paintings Collected in Mo Chan Villa" (Ventagli Cinesi Chinese Fans)

Language: Italian & English bilingual

Publisher: Corner Banca S.A. Lugano

Year of release: First printed in 1972

Size: 9.1 inches x 15.5 inches x 0.6 inches (23.2 cm x 39.4 cm x 1.4 cm)

Number of pages: One instruction booklet, 24 pages in bulk

Edition number: 2868/5000

Binding: Cloth hardcover, loose-leaf letter binding

Explanation:
The magnificent "Chinese Fan Paintings Collected in Mo Chan Villa" celebrates the timeless beauty and artistry of Chinese fan paintings. This bilingual publication, authored by Wang Jiqian, is a tribute to Dr. Franco Vannotti (Switzerland, 1910), a prominent collector and connoisseur in Europe, renowned for his extensive collection of over 200 fine Chinese Ming and Qing ancient paintings, including more than 100 fans. While the quantity may not be large, the exceptional quality of his collection places it among the finest in the world. Wang Jiqian, in the preface, highlights the selection of 24 high-quality fan paintings from this remarkable collection, emphasizing their utmost artistic value, and underscoring Dr. Franco Vannotti's distinguished position in the realm of Chinese Ming and Qing fan collections.

The Fan Paintings:
The heart of the publication lies in the 24 loose-leaf full-color fan paintings by famous artists, each page sprinkled with gold and meticulously printed. The featured artists include illustrious names like Shen Zhou, Wen Zhengming, Tang Yin, Chen Chun, Lu Zhi, Qiu Ying, Zhou Tianqiu, Song Xu, Zhang Fu, Zhu Lu, Dong Qichang, Zhan Jingfeng, Zhang Hong, Lan Ying, Wang Jian, Shao Mi, Qian Gong, Zha Shibiao, Fan Yi, Fang Hengxian, Wang Hui, Yun Shouping, Huayan, and Li Qi. Each fan painting is a masterpiece, exemplifying the unparalleled talent and creativity of these revered artists.

Wang Jiqian - A Renowned Connoisseur:
Wang Jiqian (1906～2003), known by various names like Jiquan, Xuanqing, Wang Qian, Jiqian, and others, was a native of Suzhou, China. A graduate of Soochow University, Wang Jiqian excelled in landscapes, particularly appreciating the works of the "Four Kings" – Gu Xijin, Wuhu, Dong Qichang, and Shitao. His art collection was unparalleled in China and commanded great influence both domestically and internationally.

The Evolution of Chinese Fans:
The album provides valuable insights into the history and development of Chinese fans. While the folding fan originated in Korea and was introduced to China during the Ming dynasty, the practice of using fans in Chinese culture dates back to ancient times. Chinese fans came in various forms, including feathered fans, palm-leaf fans, and round or oval fans made by stretching silk on a round frame. Round fans, popular during the Southern Sung period, were often adorned with paintings and calligraphy by renowned artists of the time. However, they were eventually overshadowed in popularity by the folding fan.

The Beauty of Fan Painting:
Folding fans, typically covered with paper or silk, were often treated with gold splashes during the Ming dynasty, as seen in this album. The smooth surface of the fan posed a unique challenge to artists, requiring skillful brushwork and special techniques to create elegant strokes and washes. The curvature of the fan also influenced the composition, often bending the horizon subtly to conform to its shape.

An Extraordinary Collection:
Dr. Franco Vannotti's collection of fan paintings stands as a testament to his discerning taste and passion for Chinese art. From this vast collection, he carefully selected 24 masterpieces that embody the essence of Chinese fan painting. In the world of fan collections, his exceptional collection is rivaled only by that of P’ang Lai-ch’en from Shanghai.

Fan Paintings - A Unique Art Form:
Fan paintings possess a distinctive form and expression, offering a fertile ground for study and appreciation of Chinese art. Wang Jiqian encourages the publication of further volumes of fan paintings, expressing the hope that Dr. Franco Vannotti will also include fan calligraphy. The intimate relationship between painting and calligraphy on fan coverings, often present on each side, deserves preservation and recognition.

In this delightful publication, readers are invited to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Chinese fan paintings, a timeless art form that continues to captivate audiences across generations. The 24 exquisite fan paintings, together with Wang Jiqian's insightful preface, form a treasure trove that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of China and the artistic brilliance of its renowned painters.