University professor selling a house for collecting furniture

Liu Xianbo, a professor at the School of Art and Design, Hubei University of Technology, has established a Ming and Qing furniture studio called "Muyan Tang" in recent years. Beyond his research and preservation efforts, he uses the studio as an educational platform to inspire students and broaden their artistic perspectives. Located on the third floor of a building in Hankou, the antique studio is filled with exquisite pieces that tell stories of China's rich cultural heritage. As you step through the entrance, you are greeted by a set of carved partition fans depicting scenes from the classic novel *Romance of the Three Kingdoms*. To the left of the door stand a pair of early Qing Dynasty top cabinets, each adorned with intricate sea water dragon motifs. The four-clawed dragons appear to be in motion, exuding energy and tension. Inside, the space transforms into a world of ancient furniture: sub-cabinets, tables, stools, chairs, and beds—all authentic antiques. Even the chairs where the reporter sat were vintage pieces. Liu explained, “This chair is made of Huang Huali wood, known as the 'Four Pieces of Unification Stele Backrest Chair.' Such a well-preserved piece is extremely rare, making these chairs priceless.” Despite the immense value of the items in the studio, the reporter felt somewhat out of place, overwhelmed by the elegance and history surrounding them. Liu Xianbo has long been an ardent admirer of Ming-style furniture, which he considers the pinnacle of Chinese craftsmanship. He often compares it to the works of Qi Baishi, saying, “Like his freehand paintings, Ming furniture reached an artistic peak that few can match. Even those who reach a high level still draw inspiration from it.” His passion for collecting began in the early 1990s when furniture was not yet widely appreciated. At the time, many people saw Ming and Qing furniture as ordinary household items, sold cheaply or even discarded. Liu used his design income, including a gold medal he won in 1993 for the stamp "Bee" at the International Beekeeping Conference, to fund his growing collection. There were moments when financial constraints threatened his hobby, but Liu never backed down. He once sold his own home to acquire a rare set of furniture, a decision that seemed extreme to many. However, he believed that true collectors must have vision, patience, and the means to pursue what they love. While some labeled him "crazy," he now looks back on it as a testament to his deep understanding and passion. Today, many people express interest in purchasing his collection, but Liu is cautious. He treats each piece like a daughter, only willing to part with them if the buyer truly appreciates their value. “These items are more than just objects—they carry history, art, and soul,” he says. As a teacher, Liu integrates his collection into his classes, using real artifacts to teach students about decorative art, aesthetics, and craftsmanship. His courses, such as “Decorative Art Quality and Appreciation,” attract both undergraduates and graduate students. By bringing the furniture into the classroom, he aims to inspire a deeper appreciation for traditional Chinese art. “Talking about design elements is one thing, but experiencing a genuine piece firsthand connects with people on a deeper level,” Liu explains. He believes that through his decades of experience, he can help students develop a stronger sense of beauty and cultural awareness. Even if only a few students are influenced, he feels it’s worth the effort. After all, every small spark of interest could ignite a lifelong passion for traditional craftsmanship. (Intern Editor Li Tian)

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