To friendship
Li Shutong (1880-1942), also known as Master Hongyi after his conversion to Buddhism, is recognized as a legendary figure in 20th-century Chinese culture. He excelled in literature, music, education, classical Chinese painting and calligraphy. Friendship Between the Virtuous Gentlemen, an ongoing exhibition at Tianjin Museum, not only reviews Li's versatility but also explores the noble character that earned him the deep respect of fellow cultural figures. On show are artworks by Li and his close friends, along with letters exchanged between them echoing the traditional ideal, junzi zhijiao danrushui (true friendship between virtuous men is as clear as water), practiced by Chinese intellectuals since ancient times. The long-term exhibition marks the 145th anniversary of Li's birth.
9 am-5 pm, closed on Mondays. 62 Pingjiang Dao, Hexi district, Tianjin. 022-8388-3000.
