The six-volume Mo Hai Chun Qiu—Collection and Connoisseurship Research into Chinese Painting and Calligraphy has been released. (Photo by Reporter Chen Yu-Hsun)

Dr. Ye Guo-Shin, the first Chinese PhD in calligraphy and painting authentication, has devoted 20 years to the study of art authentication. Over the past decade, Ye traveled to museums and art galleries worldwide, gathering first-hand materials on calligraphy and painting. His efforts culminated in the publication of Mo Hai Chun Qiu—Collection and Connoisseurship Research into Chinese Painting and Calligraphy. This publication is Taiwan’s first academically rigorous and systematic research book on art authentication. A book launch was held yesterday (26th), during which Ye expressed hope that the book would enhance people’s ability to discern and appreciate art.

Mo Hai Chun Qiu spans 720,000 words and provides a comprehensive analysis of ancient and modern calligraphy and painting authentication. It features nearly 2,000 images sourced from museums worldwide. Ye personally visited artists, their disciples, and families to obtain invaluable first-hand information. Drawing on Western methods of art creation, he established a “Painting/Calligraphy Authenticity Assessment Chart” to analyze art authentication in depth.

Currently, there is a lack of books on art authentication. Ye stated, “I hope this set of books can establish a foundational knowledge base. After reading, people should be able to identify counterfeits and learn the proper methods of art authentication.”

In addition, a book auction was held following the launch. The winning bid came from Dr. Winston Wong, chairman of the Hongren Group, who purchased the set at the highest price. Renowned modern artist Fu Baoshi’s daughter, Fu Yiyao, was also present and inscribed one of her older works as a gift for the auction winner.

[Reported by Chen Yu-Hsun in Taipei]