Core Insights - The auction of Wang Shaofei's watercolor masterpiece "Divine Comedy" reached a record price of 8 billion yen (approximately 55 million USD, or 390 million RMB), setting a new global record for watercolor paintings [1][7][10] - This auction price surpassed the previous record held by Van Gogh's watercolor landscape, which sold for 35.9 million USD (approximately 230 million RMB), highlighting the rising influence of Eastern art in the international market [1][7] - Wang Shaofei has now become the highest-selling living Chinese painter for 2025, further enhancing his artistic influence and market value [1][6] Auction Details - The auction took place on September 17, 2025, on Yahoo Auction, a prominent international auction platform in Japan [1][7] - The artwork "Divine Comedy" was initially valued at around 800,000 yen and had previously been exhibited at a public price of 3.8 billion yen in 2010, indicating a value increase of over 10,000 times in more than 30 years [7][9] - The buyer is reported to be a European collector, and the auction process did not involve competitive bidding, allowing the piece to be acquired at nearly half its market evaluation of over 100 million USD [7][10] Artist Background - Wang Shaofei is recognized as a leading figure in Eastern art and is known for his diverse artistic explorations, including ink, watercolor, and oil painting [6][10] - His earlier work "High Sun" also achieved record prices, establishing his esteemed position in the global art market [6] - The recent auction price coincides with the global population of 8 billion, symbolizing a collective cultural value [10] Market Trends - Wang Shaofei's artworks have shown a rare trend of steady price increases without any declines, making them highly sought after by collectors and investors [10] - The ongoing auction of another early oil painting by Wang Shaofei, titled "Fate," has generated significant interest due to the scarcity of his oil paintings in the market [10]

Group 1 - The Beijing Opera House is presenting a modern Peking opera titled "Wildfire Spring Breeze Fighting Ancient City" at the Chang'an Grand Theatre from August 1 to 3 and 5 [2] - The National Symphony Orchestra will perform a concert titled "Melody in My Heart" at the National Grand Theatre on August 1 [7] - The National Peking Opera Company will stage the modern Peking opera "Wisdom Takes the Tiger Mountain" at the National Grand Theatre on August 1 and 2 [7] Group 2 - The Chinese Coal Mine Art Troupe will present "The Warm Taste" at the Beijing Poly Theatre from August 1 to 3 [10] - The Beijing People's Art Theatre will perform "Camel Xiangzi" at the Capital Theatre from August 1 to 3 [10] - The Happy Mahua Theatre will stage "This Guy is Not Bad" at the Geological Hall Theatre from August 1 to 3 and 5 to 10 [10] Group 3 - The Northern Kunqu Opera Theatre will perform "Lankeshan" at the Beijing Tianqiao Arts Center on August 2 [14] - The Northern Kunqu Opera Theatre will also present "Changsheng Hall" on August 5 [14] - The Beijing National Orchestra will hold a concert titled "Victory Light" at the Beijing Arts Center on August 23 [7][14] Group 4 - The Italian MIC Company will present the original Italian musical "Divine Comedy" at the Century Theatre from August 1 to 3 [19] - The Shanghai Opera House will perform the opera "Dream of Hua Lu" at the National Grand Theatre on August 9 and 10 [17] - The Yunnan Yang Liping Cultural Communication Co., Ltd. will stage the dance drama "Pingtan Reflection" at the Chaoyang Theatre on August 16 and 17 [17]

Group 1 - The core concept of the cultural program "Beautiful Together: The Song of Harmony" is to showcase cross-cultural exchanges through artistic performances and real-life interactions among artists from various countries [1][2][3] - The program features artists from dozens of countries, highlighting the importance of genuine cultural engagement in fostering understanding and friendship between different civilizations [1][3] - The collaboration includes unique performances that blend classical and contemporary elements, as well as traditional and global influences, creating a distinctive cultural appeal [2][3] Group 2 - The program has successfully engaged foreign artists, such as Croatian pianist Maksim Mrvica and Italian cellist Ma Yiwo, who have drawn inspiration from Chinese culture to create innovative performances [2][3] - Artists from various countries, including the Cuban National Ballet and Cambodian royal family members, have actively participated, demonstrating their enthusiasm and commitment to cultural exchange [3] - The program also features a sculpture inspired by the Belt and Road Initiative, symbolizing the desire for collaboration and connection among nations through art [3]