Hong Kong Palace Museum to Receive Landmark 3,000-Piece Textile Collection
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A renowned chinese textile collection, amassed over decades by Hong Kong resident Chris Hall, will soon find a permanent home at the Hong Kong Palace Museum.The 73-year-old collector plans to donate his entire collection of 3,000 textiles, along with his residence, to the museum over the next 10 years, culminating in 2034.
Hall, a former accountant who playfully referred to himself as “the youngest thing in this flat” due to his surroundings of antiques, cited his lifelong dedication to Chinese art and his desire to see the collection appreciated within a Chinese context as the driving forces behind his decision. “It has always been my intention to give my Chinese textiles to a Chinese city, as they are a Chinese collection, and the Chinese will appreciate them,” Hall stated.
A Lifelong Passion Rooted in Family
Hall’s captivation with clothing and aesthetics began in childhood, influenced by his parents’ meticulous attention to their own wardrobes. Born in Sudan in 1950 under Anglo-Egyptian rule, his family briefly resided in Hong Kong in 1955 before relocating again. They returned to Hong Kong in 1968 when his father, then 59, accepted a position as a treasury accountant with the Hong Kong government. This return marked a pivotal moment,solidifying Hong Kong as a central location in hall’s life.
After pursuing a history degree at Cambridge University and gaining professional experience at an accounting firm in Britain, Hall permanently returned to Hong Kong in 1978. He has resided in the city ever as, dedicating himself to building what is now considered a world-class collection of Chinese textiles.
A Generous Gift to the West Kowloon Cultural Arts Hub
The donation will be housed within the West Kowloon Cultural arts Hub, a sprawling complex dedicated to arts and culture. The Hong Kong Palace Museum,a key component of the hub,will benefit immensely from the addition of Hall’s collection. The 10-year transition period allows for careful cataloging, preservation, and eventual display of the textiles.
Hall’s decision, influenced by his bachelor status and advancing age, represents a significant contribution to the cultural landscape of Hong Kong.The collection promises to offer invaluable insights into the history, artistry, and cultural meaning of Chinese textiles for generations to come. This act of philanthropy underscores Hall’s deep connection to the region and his commitment to ensuring the enduring legacy of these remarkable artifacts.
Why: Chris Hall, a 73-year-old Hong Kong resident and former accountant, is donating his entire collection of 3,000 Chinese textiles and his residence to the Hong Kong Palace Museum. He wants the collection to be appreciated within a Chinese context.
Who: The key individuals involved are Chris Hall, the collector, and the Hong Kong Palace Museum, which will receive the donation. Hall’s father’s relocation to Hong Kong also played a role in shaping Hall’s life and passion.
What: The donation consists of 3,000 Chinese textiles,representing a world-class collection amassed over decades. It also includes Hall’s residence.
How: The donation will be transferred over a 10-year period, beginning now and concluding in 2034. This timeframe allows for careful cataloging, preservation, and eventual display
