The 14th edition of International Antiques Fair (IAF) kicked off last night (24 May) with a jam-packed VIP Preview. From today to 28 May, the event will open its door to the public with free admission at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.
As with previous editions, the art extravaganza brought together antique enthusiasts, collectors, dealers, and auction houses from around the globe on the VIP opening night.
On display this year are thousands of years of Chinese artistic treasures as well as exquisite antiques from other Asian regions and Western countries, ranging from porcelains, jades, silverware, and lacquerware to classical furniture and sculptures.
Alongside a robust roster of local and global exhibitors, this year’s fair continues to raise the bar with popular and highly acclaimed events such as antique appraisal, guided tours, and lectures.
IAF's founder William Chak (left) and IAF's Director Ronald Chak (right)
Scheduled for Sunday (26 May) and Monday (27 May) will be a series of lectures in Chinese on tea and its culture, which covers topics from kungfu tea and antique pu'er tea, to tea wares and inheritance of tea culture.
Tea has been an intrinsic part of Chinese history and society for centuries. The kungfu tea ceremony, in particular, is inscribed onto UNESCO's representative list of Intangible Cultural Heritage, representing a time-honoured tradition that has been passed down through generations. A unique and ubiquitous custom in south China, kungfu tea is about the ceremonial and meticulous way of making good tea, from preparation and execution, to presentation and appreciation.
In a well-executed kungfu tea ceremony, the tea wares are thought to be as important as the tea itself. Embodying the perfect balance between functionality and beauty, each piece was carefully designed and produced by ancient master potters to enhance the aesthetic and sensory experience of drinking tea, with its shape and size elevating the taste and aroma of the beverage.
To bring an immersive experience to visitors, in between these lectures will be different Chinese tea types' ceremonies performed by tea masters. (Note: Seats are limited and registration is needed)
International Antiques Fair 2024
Venue: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre - Hall 5BC
Address: 1 Expo Drive, Wanchai, Hong Kong
Exhibition Date: 25 - 28 May 2024 (Free admission)
Events:
- Antiques Appraisal (by specialists from mainland China and members of the Antique Authentication Committee, Hong Kong Art Craft Merchants Association)
- Lectures
- Guided Tours
About International Antiques Fair
Founded in 2002 by William and Priscilla Chak, the Asian art and antiques experts based in Hong Kong, and managed by their son Ronald Chak, International Antiques Fair (IAF) strives to promote Chinese culture, cultivate public interest in art, and facilitate cultural exchanges.
The key words to define IAF include: Novelty, Diversity, Rarity, Variety, and Instructive & Informative. IAF has set very high standards in its choice of exhibitors and their offerings. For each edition, a vetting committee containing internationally recognized experts will appraise all exhibits before the fair opens, ensuring the authenticity and quality of the artworks on show.
Up to the present, IAF has established itself as a world-class art fair, attracting thousands of visitors every edition.