1895 – 1953
Xu Beihong (1895–1953) was one of China's most celebrated modern painters, renowned for bridging the traditions of Chinese ink painting with European academic technique. His iconic galloping horses became a symbol of national spirit and artistic freedom.
From 1919 to 1927, Xu Beihong studied at the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris and trained in Berlin and Brussels. His European years profoundly shaped his mastery of oil portraiture and life drawing, which he later synthesised with Chinese brushwork.
Today, Xu Beihong's legacy embodies the dialogue between East and West that defines our museum's mission. The Xu Beihong Art Museum Europe carries his vision forward — nurturing the next generation of artists who stand at the crossroads of two great cultural traditions.