Home Blog Page 2042

Science fiction writer Liu Cixin dissects the popularity of his epic work

BEIJING, Sept. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A news report from chinadaily.com.cn:

“Epic”, “stunning”, “ambitious”, “brilliant”, “profound”, “genius” — these are some of the words often quoted by users on the book review platform Goodreads, who rated Death’s End, the final installment in the Three-Body Problem trilogy by Chinese writer Liu Cixin.


Science fiction writer Liu Cixin dissects the popularity of his epic work

According to the China Educational Publications Import and Export Corporation, Liu’s Three-Body Problem trilogy has sold over 6 million copies worldwide in 23 languages, making it one of the best-selling contemporary Chinese literary works internationally.

In a speech Liu recently delivered to mark the 10th year of the book’s international publication, he modestly attributed its global success to two main aspects.

He dismissed the idea that its global appeal lies in providing a sci-fi perspective on China.

Instead, he says, the novel’s success stems from its offering of a panoramic depiction of the arrival of an extraterrestrial civilization in the near future, a theme that resonates globally. Science fiction is a worldwide genre where humanity shares a common identity, dissolving national and ethnic differences. It depicts crises and challenges faced by all and envisions a future that unites humanity in aspiration.

“Therefore, science fiction is the literary genre most capable of transcending cultural and racial boundaries, resonating with people worldwide,” he says.

The Three-Body Problem books deal with the theme of human contact with extraterrestrial civilizations, a universal issue for humanity.

He argues that extraterrestrial civilizations pose a real threat, challenging common perceptions. Their potential arrival, whether imminent or distant, is humanity’s greatest uncertainty and could profoundly transform our reality and fate.

GAC Engages at the 2025 Fortune Global 500 Summit, Exploring the Future of the Automotive Industry

GUANGZHOU, China, Sept. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On September 25, 2025, Guangzhou hosted the Fortune Global 500 Summit, drawing nearly 300 influential business leaders and renowned experts from around the globe. GAC Group Chairman and President Feng Xingya was invited to articulate his vision for the next decade of automotive innovation.


Feng remarked that the global automotive industry is entering a decisive phase of accelerated transformation, marked by technological breakthroughs, management advancements, and far-reaching industrial restructuring. He noted that future competition will be defined by three fundamental dynamics: intelligent, scenario-driven user experiences; deeper collaboration across the industry ecosystem; and comprehensive lifecycle value creation. The sector’s business models are rapidly shifting beyond traditional hardware sales to integrated solutions that blend hardware, software, and services—unlocking opportunities for sustainable and resilient growth.

Addressing global trends, Feng noted that Chinese automakers have established a tangible lead in the fields of new energy vehicles, green decarbonization, and smart technologies. GAC is rapidly accelerating its global strategy, targeting entry into 100 overseas markets and aiming for annual exports of 500,000 vehicles by 2027. To support this vision, GAC has launched five KD assembly plants worldwide, with plans to double this footprint by 2026. This expansion signals a transition from simple product exports to a holistic ecosystem approach, delivering enduring value to global partners and customers.

Feng further outlined the imperative for auto manufacturers to enhance core competencies in user insight, product integration, intelligence, and marketing. GAC is investing in independent innovation, focusing on advanced electric drive systems and intelligent system integration, while embedding AI in manufacturing to boost supply chain resilience and product safety. The user-centric philosophy drives ongoing improvements to management and development processes, ensuring that products are finely tuned to evolving customer needs and market dynamics.

Recognizing the diverse expectations of today’s auto consumers, Feng pointed to the need for balanced innovation in both functional and emotional dimensions. GAC is responding by pioneering intelligent products and AI-powered services that enhance both safety and satisfaction.

Discussing the future of new energy vehicles, Feng introduced the “Electric Value Index,” illustrating the cost advantages of EVs in most Chinese cities. He affirmed that as the industry shifts toward global integration, GAC Group will continue advancing through innovation, localization, and collaboration—committed to delivering better intelligent mobility experiences for users worldwide.

2025 World Design Capital Conference opens in Shanghai

SHANGHAI, Sept. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A news report from the Paper.

The 2025 World Design Capital Conference (WDCC2025) officially opened on 25th September 2025 in Shanghai, China.


In 2010, Shanghai officially joined the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN). Over the past fifteen years, “Shanghai Design” has contributed wisdom and strength through innovation, creativity and creation to urban development. These days, as Shanghai accelerates its efforts in becoming a modernized international metropolis with global influence, it will better leverage the importance of design in empowering all sorts of industries.

At the opening ceremony of WDCC2025, “Shanghai 2010-2025: 15th Anniversary as a UNESCO City of Design – Results and Achievements” report was officially released, alongside Shanghai’s policy measures in promoting cosmetics industry’s development and a series of creative design and fashion consumer goods industry projects. The ceremony also awarded 2025 Shanghai Youth Design Talent U35 Certificates, 2025 “Shanghai Design 100+” Global Competition Annual Awards and 2025 “Frontier Design Prize”.

As a flagship event in the design industry, WDCC2025 undertakes its mission and vision to build a global design innovation cooperation platform and to explore means of design in driving development of new quality productive forces. Furthermore, it strives to build an ecological design weathervane, a new fashion-lifestyle paradigm and an industrial innovation cradle. This year marks the 15th anniversary of Shanghai joining the UCCN as well as being awarded the title of “Design Capital”. WDCC2025 showcases Shanghai’s innovation practices, presents to the world Shanghai’s design propositions including “ecological design”, and launches Shanghai Youth Design Talent “U35 Program” for the first time. During the conference, domestic and international renowned academicians and masters, industry-leading enterprises and designer representatives have been invited to hold various forums, working together to build a new framework for global design cooperation and development.

CONTACT: Xiner Xiang, xiangxe@thepaper.cn

DFRobot Ignites Hands-On Innovation at 2025 Maker Faire Bay Area, Making AI and Tech Fun & Accessible.

SHANGHAI, Sept. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — DFRobot, a global leader in open-source hardware and STEAM education solutions, today officially unveiled its interactive booth at the 2025 Maker Faire Bay Area, held in the Coal Shed 3 area. Now open to the public, the booth welcomes attendees to experience firsthand a range of innovative products designed to make AI, IoT, and interactive design more accessible and engaging.

Visit DFRobot at Booth Coal Shed 3 during the 2025 Bay Area Maker Faire
Visit DFRobot at Booth Coal Shed 3 during the 2025 Bay Area Maker Faire

At the DFRobot booth, makers of all ages and skill levels can partake in hands-on demonstrations and activities. Highlights include:

AI Gesture Recognition Challenge:
Visitors are invited to compete against a real-time gesture recognition system powered by the Unihiker K10—DFRobot’s AI Coding Board, designed specifically for K12 STEM education and beginners. Attendees can experience firsthand how TinyML models interpret gestural data instantly.

Local Vision and Audio Model Demonstration:
The LattePanda Sigma single-board computer will run local AI vision models on site, showcasing its ability to handle complex tasks without relying on cloud computing—a critical advantage for edge AI projects. Attendees will discover LattePanda Sigma’s powerful CPU and impressive 32GB memory firsthand.

Interactive Touch Experience:
The FireBeetle 2 ESP32 P4 interactive panel invites visitors to engage with a high-refresh-rate touch screen interface, demonstrating its potential for next-generation human-machine interface (HMI) applications.

BOSON for Science – Irrigation Experiment:
The BOSON Kit, a modular collection of electronic building blocks tailored for young inventors and STEM educators, is featured in an installation that demonstrates rainwater collection and a smart drip irrigation system. The solution, which automatically adjusts irrigation to prevent over-watering, aims to help students understand the global water crisis and the role of technology in efficiently managing water resources in arid regions. Demonstrations range from no-code to coding workflows, presenting the kit’s adaptability.

RGB Camping Light:
Ideal for ages 6 and up, this STEM education kit provides both entertaining and educational value. Children can experiment with color-mixing using three knobs and learn the basics of electronic circuits and the principles of RGB primary colors. The kit features large, easy-to-grip parts, an illustrated instruction manual, and is designed for independent assembly, helping to develop hands-on, cognitive, and reading skills. Users can even create custom lampshades, making it perfect as a camping light, night light, or holiday decoration. It’s an engaging and educational gift for creative, inquisitive children.

Seamless Support from DFRobot’s USA Warehouse

Customers in the United States can now shop tax-free on the DFRobot USA website. Our California warehouse stocks over 600 best-selling items. All orders over $50 (excludes orders over 2kg and select items) qualify for free domestic shipping, with delivery in 2-7 business days and no duties or import fees.

“Our goal here today is to spark curiosity in every visitor,” said a DFRobot booth representative,”Each station is designed for immediate, hands-on interaction. More importantly, we want this innovative spark to continue effortlessly after the event. For our friends in the U.S.—educators, developers, and families—our local warehouse in California is there to provide direct support, helping you seamlessly turn these inspirations into tangible projects and learning outcomes.”

Visit DFRobot at Booth Coal Shed 3 during the 2025 Bay Area Maker Faire from 26th to 28th to see how easy and engaging AI, IoT, and interactive design can be. Let it spark your next great idea.

The 2025 BPD Singapore Conference Has Concluded Successfully! Jointly Embarking on a New Journey for Global Development

SINGAPORE, Sept. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The 2025 BPD (Biopharmaceutical Bioprocess Development) Singapore Summit, which co-hosted by WuXi XDC (Stock Code: 2268.HK), was successfully concluded from September 24-26, 2025. The conference brought together leading biopharmaceutical companies and research institutions from Europe, North America, China, and the Asia-Pacific region. The conference aimed to facilitate exchanges and cooperation between Chinese and global biopharmaceutical enterprises and research institutions, and promote the application of advanced process technologies in the manufacturing of innovative drugs.

Dr. Chris Chen, Chairman of WuXi XDC, CEO of WuXi Biologics, delivered a speech at the conference. His speech closely focused on the core topics in the biopharmaceutical field, centered on the practical value brought by technological progress, and deeply explained how technological breakthroughs such as intelligent processes and the application of new raw materials achieve cost optimization and efficiency improvement, providing a clear path for the development of the industry. WuXi Biologics has always taken R&D as its core, continuously deepened technological innovation, and helped accelerate the R&D process of biopharmaceuticals.

Dr. Jimmy Li, CEO of WuXi XDC, delivered the opening speech at the conference. He noted,”In recent years, the biopharmaceutical industry has developed rapidly, especially with complex therapies such as bioconjugates gradually entering a golden era. Accelerating and optimizing the journey of drugs from development to commercialization serves as a critical bridge connecting cutting-edge science to patient lives, and is key to successfully translating innovation into industrialized solutions. This conference to foster communication and cooperation among global biopharma, pharma, suppliers and research institutions, promote the application of advanced process technologies, and ultimately benefit patients worldwide, embodying our corporate vision-Linking Innovation to Health. “

During this conference, WuXi XDC specially set up a forum titled “XDC Innovation and Development”. The forum invited leading entrepreneurs and industry experts from China and abroad to share cutting-edge research achievements and industrialization practice experience. Focusing on technical difficulties and innovation directions, it provides technical guidance and path references for the industry to achieve innovative, international and high-quality development.

Centering on the core topics of market concern, the forum set up a panel discussions titled “Innovation, collaboration, and inspiration in bioconjugates” to jointly explore technological breakthroughs and broader possibilities for the future of ADCs. This panel discussion was hosted by Dr. Jimmy Li, CEO of WuXi XDC. Participants included Carl Deutsch, CSO of NBE Therapeutics; Dawn Benson, SVP of Quality and Manufacturing at CytomX Therapeutics; Ben Ayers, VP of ADC at Hummingbird Bioscience; Scott Hilderbrand, VP of CMC at Crescent Biopharma; and Dr. Qin Gang, Founder of GeneQuantum; Robert Hughes, Sr. Dr. Pharmaceutical science at Cidara Therapeutics.

Participants at the panel heatedly discussed technological transformations in the bioconjugate drug field.As biopharmaceutical technologies continue to make breakthroughs, bioconjugate drugs are also accelerating their evolution from traditional ADCs to the broader field of XDCs. Payloads have expanded from toxins to oligonucleotides and beyond, opening up new horizons for precision medicine.

Focusing on the core needs of ADC drug internationalization and commercialization, experts from WuXi XDC conducted an in-depth analysis in their keynote speech.

Dr. Yuhua Hu, Head of US and EU CMC of WuXi XDC, delivered a speech titled “Empowering the conjugation manufacturing and commercialization “. Dr. Hu stated that WuXi XDC has long been the best enabler for China’s innovative drugs. In terms of empowering clients’ overseas expansion, WuXi XDC boasts multiple advantages: 1) It provides a one-stop technology platform covering the entire lifecycle from drug discovery to commercial manufacturing, and enabling clients to accelerate commercial production; 2) It achieves efficient protection of intellectual property rights, ensuring high-quality project execution; 3) It holds an excellent audit track record, with its established quality system having passed audits by regulatory authorities worldwide; 4) It gathers top global talents in the fields of biopharmaceuticals and ADCs, with profound professional technical accumulation and practical experience; 5) It adheres to the “customer-centric” concept, taking customer satisfaction as the ultimate measurement standard to fully ensure the fulfillment of customer needs.

Dr. Stuart Wang, Executive Director of US and EU CMC Management of WuXi XDC, shared insights on the CMC challenges and breakthrough strategies in the overseas expansion of China’s ADC drugs. First, Dr. Stuart mentioned that the wave of overseas expansion of China’s ADC drugs is accelerating, and China has become an indispensable force in the global ADC industry landscape. Product safety, quality stability, and compliance are key concerns for potential licensees, and a sound CMC system precisely provides solid support for these critical dimensions. In the field of CMC management, WuXi XDC, relying on its profound professional accumulation in multiple disciplines, a one-stop service platform covering the entire process, seamless integration capabilities across all links, and an outstanding global audit track record, provides strong support for clients’ overseas expansion journey.

In addition to the technical breakthroughs and industrial insights shared by top global entrepreneurs and experts at the forum, a series of supporting activities such as thematic seminars and corporate technology demonstrations were held concurrently during the conference. As an important co-organizer of this conference, WuXi XDC not only deeply participated in the core agenda of the conference but also specially planned and hosted an on-site visit to its Singapore site. This visit intuitively demonstrated WuXi XDC’s process capabilities, quality system, and global service layout.

As the cornerstone of WuXi XDC’s global strategic layout and commercial manufacturing, the Singapore site adopts an advanced modular facility design. It integrates world-class production lines for mAb intermediates & DS, DP, as well as supporting areas including process science and technology laboratories, quality control, intelligent warehousing, and utility systems. The site implements a quality assurance system that meets the highest global standards, fully complying with the GMP standards established by the U.S. FDA, European EMA, and China NMPA. This enables end-to-end compliant management and control—from mAb intermediate and DS to DP filling—ensuring seamless global release of products.

With the successful conclusion of the conference, we look forward to the accelerated implementation of more new technologies and products, as well as more biopharmaceuticals expanding into global markets to serve the world and benefit patients worldwide.

About WuXi XDC

WuXi XDC Cayman Inc. (stock code: 2268.HK) is a globally recognized contract research, development, and manufacturing organization (CRDMO) specializing in bioconjugates. The company offers a wide range of innovative conjugation and payload-linker technologies to facilitate the development of next-generation antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). Focused on early-stage research and development of ADCs and other bioconjugates, WuXi XDC offers comprehensive one-stop services from preclinical to commercial manufacturing. Its services cover antibody intermediates and other biologics intermediates, chemical payloads and linkers, as well as bioconjugate drug substances and drug products. For more information about WuXi XDC, please visit: www.wuxixdc.com

Contacts
Investor: wuxixdc.ir@wuxibiologics.com
Media: wuxixdc_pr@wuxibiologics.com
BD: wuxixdc_info@wuxibiologics.com

Grand Unveiling of Poly Auction Hong Kong Autumn Auctions 2025 at Shun Tak Centre Presenting a Series of Cross-category Artistic Treasures at the Season’s Premier Art Event

Auction Preview: 3 – 8 October
Live Auctions: 7 – 9 October
4/F, Shun Tak Centre

HONG KONG, Sept. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Poly Auction Hong Kong is pleased to present the Autumn Auctions 2025. The Auction Preview and Live Auctions will take place from 3 to 9 October on the 4th floor of Shun Tak Centre. A diverse array of exquisite artistic treasures with heritage value and investment potential will be showcased, offering an exceptional art experience to collectors from all around the world.


Leading up to the Autumn Auctions, a Highlights Preview from 24 to 29 September will be held at Poly Gallery Hong Kong. The exhibition will display a selection of key lots that are set to feature in the upcoming auction, and is an incredible viewing opportunity that is not to be missed.

MODERN AND CONTEMPORARY ART

This season, the Modern and Contemporary Art Department presents an exceptional auction that transcends eras and styles, spotlighting current global trends, revisiting iconic 20th-century masterpieces, and celebrating the innovation within Chinese contemporary art.

Zhou Chunya’s Peach Blossoms transforms the canvas into an immersive, three-dimensional realm. Drawing from the Chinese literati tradition, where peach blossoms symbolize a retreat to nature and spiritual serenity, Zhou reinterprets this motif using modern oil painting techniques. His blossoms transcend mere poetic symbols, becoming vivid, sensory expressions that bridge classical and modern aesthetics. The work redefines a traditional Chinese image while engaging in a dialogue with Western art. Zhou’s fluid strokes evoke the energy of Abstract Expressionism, turning the canvas into a space of action and emotion. These Western influences are seamlessly integrated into the Chinese ideal of the “Peach Blossom Spring”, culminating in a vibrant, contemporary vision of a floral paradise. Peach Blossoms embodies a rich cultural heritage and participates in a broader, global artistic dialogue, solidifying its place as a defining masterpiece of Chinese contemporary art.

Wu Dayu’s Rhymes of Beijing Opera-52, created circa 1980, marks a pivotal point in the artist’s career, showcasing a complete transcendence of figurative limitations. Wu concentrates on the interplay of lines, colors, and spatial relationships, channeling emotions with unrestrained clarity. Inspired by the fluid, expressive strokes of Chinese calligraphy and the dynamic movements of Beijing Opera performers, he translates these elements into rhythmic brushstrokes, generating a dramatic cadence and layers of surging color. This embodiment of “Eastern aesthetic charm” within the confines of the canvas carves new paths for modern Chinese art, establishing a bold and innovative artistic vision.

Anish Kapoor’s Mirror (Brandy Wine to Laser Red mix2 Brandy Wine) stands as a remarkable work in his iconic “Mirror” series. Evoking the image of a circular red vortex, it subtly draws in the surrounding space, architecture, and the viewer, creating a dynamic interplay between the artwork and its environment. Depending on its context, the piece unfolds a spectrum of mesmerizing effects, challenging conventional perceptions of the relationship between emptiness and form. Through this profound engagement, it reveals an extraordinary capacity to converse with the depths of contemporary spatial concepts.

Also featured is Yayoi Kusama’s Dots Obsession, painted in 2001, a striking work that showcases the artist’s signature color palette and meticulously arranged dot matrices. The piece embodies her enduring fascination with infinity, obliteration, and the cosmic order. Rooted in her early visual explorations, it reveals the philosophical sophistication of her mature period, offering profound reflections on life, existence, and the universe.

Kohei Nawa’s PixCell-Topi features a Damaliscus lunatus, also known as a topi, a rare and elusive antelope native to Africa’s expansive grasslands. With its distinctive form and vibrant vitality, the topi is transformed by the artist into a singular intersection of technology and spirituality. By meticulously fusing taxidermy with glass beads, the artwork captures the raw energy of life on the savanna, preserving the dust and light of the African landscape beneath its crystalline surface. The result is a contemporary totem imbued with profound spiritual resonance.

Circle 87-2 stands as one of the most significant works in the history of contemporary Chinese art, recognized not only for its appearance in pivotal exhibitions but also for its groundbreaking role in establishing Chinese abstract art. The piece masterfully fuses Eastern Taoist philosophy with Western abstract forms. Using black and white, Yu Youhan employs calligraphic brushstrokes to create a cosmos of dynamic chaos within the circle. Inspired by the Taiji philosophy of the I Ching and the Tao Te Ching, this work represents a monumental chapter in the evolution of contemporary Chinese art.

Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art

The Chinese Ceramics and Works of Arts Department is delighted to present three curated sales: ‘Peak of Grandeur: A Fine Selection of lmportant lmperial Treasures’, ‘The Way of Things: Treasures of Early Chinese Art’, and ‘Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art’. Here are a few highlights from our upcoming sales:

A Junyao purple and blue-glazed ‘numbered six’ tripod narcissus bowl, dating from the Yuan to early Ming dynasty. The bowl is covered with a ravishing blue glaze on the interior and a vibrant reddish-purple glaze on the exterior, reminiscent of rosy clouds against the blue sky. Decorated with two rows of drum nail bosses, the form is remarkably elegant and refined. With the numeral six incised to the base, it functioned as a flower vessel in the imperial court. Its impeccable provenance adds to its rarity and importance.

A fine and rare ‘robin’s egg’-glazed vase, zun, from the Yongzheng period. The form is simple yet elegant. Decorated with three groups of raised bow-strings, the vase is admired for its dynamic silhouette. The turquoise glaze cascades down in fluid streaks with characteristic violet-red flecking. Its sophisticated craftsmanship marks it as an exceptional example of Chinese imperial porcelain. 

A rare and large carved polychrome lacquer ‘archaistic’ vase with ‘deer’- handles, hu, from the Qianlong period. The form of the present vase is derived from archaic bronze ritual vessels. The vase is distinguished by its lustrous color, precise carving and intricate design. The ‘deer’-form handles are exquisitely rendered with lively charm. With an illustrious provenance, this masterpiece showcases both the appreciation for the past and the technical refinements during the Qianlong reign.

An important archaic bronze ritual food vessel, gui, from the Western Zhou dynasty. The vessel is of exceptional quality – its form elegant and vigorous, its patina deep and mature, and its decoration crisp and elaborate. Cast with the inscription, ‘zuo fu yi bao gui shen’ (Shen made this precious sacrificial vessel, gui, for Father Yi), this gui has been extensively documented, underscoring its historical importance.

An archaic bronze ritual food vessel, fangding, from the early Western Zhou dynasty. The imposing presence of the vessel is enhanced by its exquisitely cast decoration and eight prominent flanges. With the inscription ‘ya mu yu’ (made to commemorate the alliance between two clans), this fangding possesses both historical value and artistic brilliance.

A gilt bronze figure of Kapaladhara Hevajra, from the early Ming dynasty. The figure is exceedingly impressive, with the dazzling colour of gilding, fierce expression of the deity and meticulously rendered jewels and ornaments. It is of superb quality and rarity, reflecting the exquisite craftsmanship of the imperial workshops in the early Ming dynasty.

CHINESE PAINTINGS AND CALLIGRAPHY

The Chinese Painting and Calligraphy Department will present a selection of works that bridges ancient and modern civilization.

Among the forthcoming ancient works is Xu Wei’s Calligraphy in Semi-Cursive Script, created in the Renchen year (1582) of the Wanli era when the artist was 72 years old, and is one of his latest works from the final years of his life. The handscroll includes two poems: “Ode to Watching the Hunt” and “On the Sixteenth Night, Strolling Under Lanterns, Drinking with Qu Zhongyu and Wang Xinpu at the West Tower of Great Central Bridge”. Both poems appear in the Complete Works of Xu Wenchang. This handscroll appears at first glance to be comprised of wild and unrefined scribbles; in fact, its brushstrokes are arranged like stones cobbled together on a road, intentionally and harmoniously composed. Xu’s calligraphy emphasizes lifting and pressing motions, exaggerating certain strokes and character components. His style reflects influences from Chu Suiliang and Huang Tingjian, with the most delicate passages executed with a finely pointed brush. His calligraphic rhythm rises and falls, with dots and strokes extended freely to convey a distinctively unrestrained and self-possessed spirit.

After Wang Wei: Snow Mountain Travelling was painted by Lan Meng, whose sobriquet names include Cigong and Yixing, and was also known as Luan. He was a native of Hangzhou, Zhejiang, and is the second son of Lan Ying. He gained fame from a young age and excelled in landscape painting, studying after masters of the Song and Yuan dynasties. He took particularly to Ni Zan’s sparse elegance, preferring refined brushwork, alongside, in observation of his family’s tradition, the stylistic influence of Huang Gongwang. This is a large handscroll that evokes Wang Wei, who is regarded as the founder of literati painting and a master of composing winter scenes. The painting shows towering snow-peaks, lush ancient trees, and sharp mountain ridges in an S-shaped composition, executed as an imposing handscroll with the monumental grandeur characteristic of Song arrangements, and with subdued and classical coloring. In the lower section, a red-robed scholar wearing a bamboo hat rides a horse, hurrying along in the cold wind. Two attendants follow closely behind, one carrying a load on a shoulder pole, the other bearing a heavy backpack. Along the winding mountain path, houses and dwellings peek out from dense trees and hills, complementing the snow bearing on treetops and red leaves scattered on the scenery. The painting comprehensively captures a landscape from its vast scale down to its minute details, and is a rare and masterful work by Lan Meng.

Dong Bangda’s The Bestowed Residence depicts an estate with elegant, lively brushwork and refined, graceful coloring. A light blue-green wash is applied over a base of ink and light hues. The composition shows a spacious, splendid courtyard surrounded by beautiful scenery — lush trees, a small bridge over a flowing stream, and a two-tiered embankment lined with willows — premises unmatched even in the capital. A century later, this painting was discovered and purchased by Xiang Shouzhang. By coincidence, his brother-in-law Xu Naipu, who served in the emperor’s private Nan Shufang in the Forbidden City, was then residing in the very same former residence of the elderly Chancellor Xu. As though ordained by fate, Xiang Shouzhang promptly gifted the album to him. It was later passed down to Xu’s son, Xu Pengshou. In the sixth year of Emperor Xianfeng’s reign, Xu Pengshou brought out this album while hosting Cheng Zuqing as his guest. Inspired, Cheng added one more painting to the album, bringing it to a perfect conclusion.

Also to be presented is Li Fangying’s Twelve-Leaf Album of Flowers. This album is a masterful later-year work by one of the “Eight Eccentrics of Yangzhou”, completed less than three years before his passing. Li painted it in the summer of the 18th year of the Qianlong era (1753), while he was residing at a friend’s estate in Jinling (known as “Jie Garden“), and supporting himself by selling paintings. Known for his righteous and principled character, Li experienced numerous frustrations over the course of his career. In his later years, his painting style transformed remarkably, becoming wild and emotionally intense. This album consists of twelve leaves depicting plum blossoms, chrysanthemums and other blooms, executed with vigorous, ancient-inspired brushwork and a masterful interplay of ink and color. His renderings of plum blossoms are especially varied in form and structure, blending moist and dry ink in unexpected ways that continually delight and captivate the viewer.

Additionally, among the modern works to be featured is Fu Baoshi’s Scholars Listening to the Ruan. This painting is an exemplary figure work from Fu’s “Jingangpo period” in 1943, a time when his personal style began to emerge. The piece conveys a charmingly naive and unpretentious manner and is full of character and appeal. The artist used relatively loose-textured Sichuan traditional handmade paper, applying lush, expressive ink washes and scattered brushwork to evoke a sense of wind and rain. The figures are rendered with refined, ancient-style gossamer-line drawing, depicting a scholar listening to the music, the female musician playing the ruan instrument, and a servant holding wine. The resolute scholar appears deep in thought, seemingly distracted from the music, reflecting the artist’s own sorrow and concern for his country and people.

Wu Guanzhong’s Su Zhou Gardens portrays a Jiangnan garden scene executed on Japanese paper card. In the distance, a pavilion with black tiles and vermilion railings offers a cool and pleasant resting place for visitors. The mid-section of the piece features rockeries and their reflections in the water, rendered in light ink washes and outlined with classic silvery-gray lines. From the top right to the middle of the piece, tender green vines cling gently to the rocks, while quick, expressive brushstrokes suggest varying shades of greenery. Playful cinnabar red-fish, dot into view from the back to the foreground, and ripples spread outward from the center, evoking the poetic sentiment of “a sudden breeze ruffles the spring water of the pond”, as in the poem “The Wind Rises” by Feng Yanji. The composition harmoniously blends dots, lines, and surfaces with ink and color interplaying between the tangible and the implied, creating a gentle and elegant atmosphere unique to Jiangnan’s water towns, presenting a garden full of vitality that captivates the imagination.

JEWELS

The Jewelry, Watches, and Handbags Department presents a selection of elegant and collectible pieces worthy of being treasured and passed down through generations.

The highlight lot of this season is the Jadeite Bead, Ruby and Diamond Necklace. “Large pearls and small pearls falling on a jade plate” — like the delicate imagery evoked by Li Bai in his poem “Song of the Pipa” finds form in this necklace composed of forty-three natural jadeite beads. Each bead, uniform in size, is exceptionally large and perfectly rounded with a diameter of approximately 13.57 mm. With fine and smooth texture, clear and translucent luminosity, and a soft luster, the necklace exudes both substance and grandeur. The glimmer of the ruby clasp stands out sharply amidst the expanse of serene green, presenting a complementary interplay that enhances the necklace’s depth and dimension. This is a remarkable piece bearing incredible harmony across the entire strand of beads.

Also featured is a 5.21 Carat Burmese Ruby and Diamond Ring. Natural, unheated rubies exceeding 5 carats are exceptionally rare in the market, and those originating from Burma (Myanmar) are widely regarded as the pinnacle of quality. This 5.21 carat ruby, cut in a classic cushion shape, displays a rich and pure brilliance, its crystal-clear transparency and intensity, brimming with a fire characteristic of only the finest Burmese rubies.

This pair of 3.03 and 3.02 Carat Burmese ‘Pigeon’s Blood’ Ruby and Diamond Earrings is also exceptionally prized. With nearly identical weight and proportions, the two rubies glow with mirror-perfect symmetry, exhibiting a regal and breathtaking beauty. Both rubies originate from the Mogok mining region in Myanmar. Revered as the “Valley of Rubies” since the 19th century, this highland region has been valued for producing rubies of the most intense color and purest crystallization, and remains the global benchmark for rubies to this day, as the highest standard of “pigeon’s blood red” is almost exclusively determined by Mogok rubies. This pair exemplifies such quality, displaying a vivid, deep, and saturated color with outstanding brilliance and inner fire. Verified to be unheated and naturally pure, they are an exceptionally rare and precious treasure.

Also to be presented is an 8.20 Carat Fancy Vivid Yellow Diamond and Diamond Ring. The diamond possesses a clear and intense hue, boasting a brilliant luminosity that flows vividly between the depths of gold. With distinct facets and compact brilliance, it is akin to a sunbeam encased in stone. With a clarity grade of VVS1, the diamond exhibits a pure and sharp radiance from its refined polishing and symmetrical cutting. The band is delicately set with small diamonds, subtly arranged and accentuating the presence of the center stone. The union of white and golden light adds depth and rhythm to the piece, creating quiet yet powerful grace, bright yet soft beauty. Most notably, its girdle bears the GRAFF inscription. Throughout its sixty years of history, Graff has adhered to rigorous standards in gemstone selection, ensuring all diamonds are traceable to their origins. This inscription is reserved only for the most exceptional stones, serving as the brand’s signature as well as a guarantee of quality and accountability, further elevating the significance of this yellow diamond.

This Pair of 12.69 and 12.31 Carat Sri Lanka Sapphire and Diamond Earrings by Bvlgari, represents a perfect fusion of color and craftsmanship, embodying the brand’s proud Italian aesthetic and gem-setting tradition. The heart of these earrings lies in the two cushion-cut sapphires, each weighing over 12 carats and sourced from the “Island of Gems” Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan sapphires have been historically cherished among discerning collectors and members of royalty, renowned for their exceptional clarity, and soft yet vivid tones. Weighing 12.69 and 12.31 carats respectively, the two center stones are nearly identical in form and proportion, exhibiting a harmony that is second to none. Their rich, serene color glows with a lively brilliance, while their high transparency and minimal inclusions confer a consistently saturated and enchanting blue hue under any light, exemplifying the classic qualities of top-tier sapphires of this origin. Bvlgari’s artisans have skillfully allowed the gemstones to take center stage; their artful diamond-setting technique, featuring a surround of marquise diamonds, enhances overall visual strikingness and radiance; while clean lines artfully frames and amplifies the intense coloring of the sapphires, resulting in an unforgettable contrast on all lay eyes on it. Such bold and elegant design perfectly continues Bvlgari’s legacy of exceptional mastery over color, form, and volume.

The marriage of a prized emerald from Colombia’s Muzo mines with pink diamonds from Australia’s Argyle mine birthed an Important 27.16 Carat Colombian ‘Muzo’ Emerald and Colored Diamond Ring, a piece destined to be recorded in the annals of jewelry history. The center stone, a 27.16-carat Muzo emerald, like an immortalized enchanted forest, bears the heritage of Colombia’s most prized emerald vein. Accounting for only 0.1% of global emerald production, “Muzo” is synonymous with top-quality emeralds renowned for their rich color and minimal inclusions. Remarkably, this emerald is completely untreated. Surrounding it is a halo of 1.5 carats of pink diamonds sourced from the Argyle mine in Western Australia, which boasts irreplaceable rarity — now permanently closed, the mine once supplied 90% of the world’s pink diamonds. The precise arrangement of yellow and white diamonds is akin to a symphony of light, enhancing the magnetizing depth of the central emerald. This ring is not only a masterpiece of jewelry craftsmanship but also a time capsule of natural treasures, capturing the lushness of South American rainforests and the dazzling sunsets of Australian red earth. Such intercontinental brilliance undoubtedly graces the wearer’s hand with the most precious natural legends from across two continents.

Poly Auction Hong Kong Autumn Auctions 2025 – Hong Kong Live Preview and Auction

-Hong Kong Live Preview and Auction- 
Date:           3 to 9 October, from 10AM to 6PM 
Auctions:     7 to 9 October 
Location:     4/F, Shun Tak Centre 

Poly Auction Hong Kong Autumn Auctions 2025 – Highlights Preview

Date:

24 to 29 September  

Location:

Poly Auction (Hong Kong) Limited, Suites 701-708, 7/F, One Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, Hong Kong

High-res Images: 

Google Drive: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1qGnfhYEoKPVzslyGKcF3HnaCdAuK09ZO?usp=sharing 

Baidu Pan: https://pan.baidu.com/s/18PefdLrlsU2ZDu98Khm_gQ  

Media Enquiries: 

Poly Auction Hong Kong 

Trista Tang|ttang@polyauction.com.hk|+852 2303 9892 

Occasions PR & Marketing  

Candice Kotcandice@occasionspr.com  |+852 3678 0117

Jade Liu    |jadeliu@occasionspr.com  |+852 3678 0135

Stella Wongstellawong@occasionspr.com|+852 3678 0123 

About Poly Auction Hong Kong

Poly Auction Hong Kong Co., Ltd., (Poly Auction Hong Kong) was established in 2012 by Poly Culture Group Corporation Limited and is committed to becoming one of the most dynamic auction houses in the Asia-Pacific region.

Committed to a diverse range of auctions, Poly Auction Hong Kong operates through five major departments: Modern and Contemporary art, Chinese Paintings and Calligraphy, Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, Jewels, Watches and Handbags, and Rare Wine, Whisky. Each department boasts a team of professionals offering services such as consigned auctions, private sales, and complimentary valuation consultations, all aimed at providing collectors with an exceptional experience.

Poly Auction Hong Kong hosts numerous exciting auctions annually, consistently achieving impressive results. Since its debut auction in 2012, Poly Auction Hong Kong has held auctions and continues to set new records across various artists, art pieces and genres. In 2022, Poly Auction Hong Kong’s 10th Anniversary Auction held its first Modern and Contemporary Art Evening Sale, successfully pulled off a white-glove sale, realising a grand sale of over HK$410 million. The Autumn Auctions 2023 saw remarkable results in Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art auctions, with the “Meiyintang Collection” continuing its white-glove legend. In the Spring Auctions 2024, the Modern and Contemporary Art Sale achieved a robust sell-through rate of approximately 92% by lot, setting a new record for the highest sell-through rate.  In recent years, Poly Auction Hong Kong has set numerous world auction records, including Wu Guanzhong’s The Zhou Village, which established a new world auction record for the artist, and Zao Wou-ki’s Et la terre était sans forme, which ranked third in the artist’s world auction record and set a new auction record for works from his Oracle period.

Poly Auction Hong Kong is dedicated to promoting the global development of art, culture, and technology. Our initiatives include actively curating exhibitions and facilitating exchanges with renowned artists over the years. We also host special auctions for celebrity collectors and artists, special online auctions, and digital art auctions in recent years.

Poly Gallery Hong Kong has consistently supported local arts and events in collaboration with Poly Auction Hong Kong. Together, we aim to discover museum-worthy collections, often associated with the Poly Art Museum in China, while continuously introducing new ideas and visions to the Asian art market and art collectors worldwide.

Since 2016, Poly Gallery Hong Kong has been dedicated to providing a comprehensive fine art connoisseur experience by actively hosting a variety of art exhibitions, private sales, cultural salons and crossover events. Poly Gallery Hong Kong collaborates closely with distinguished curators, artists, as well as collectors and specialists in the industry to explore the limitless possibilities of art.

To further promote the arts within the community, we have successfully hosted talks and guided tours with private sectors, family offices, private clubs and more. These exhibitions have attracted thousands of visitors, with an average attendance of 2,000 per show including celebrities from Greater China.

Follow Poly Auction Hong Kong  

Official Website:

www.polyauction.com.hk 

Facebook:

保利香港拍賣Poly Auction Hong Kong 

Instagram:

polyauctionhk 

WeChat Account:

polyauction-hongkong 

RED Account:

保利香港拍卖有限公司 

HOVERAir lands in Costco

Your personal videographer is now available across the U.S.

PALO ALTO, Calif., Sept. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — It’s official—HOVERAir is now available nationwide at Costco, online and in over 600 stores. This partnership marks a milestone in our mission to empower people to capture life’s exciting adventures, while staying fully present. With HOVERAir, families, adventurers, and everyday creators can experience a new way of storytelling—hands-free, seamless, and immersive.

HOVERAir takes flight with Costco: the exclusive PROMAX bundle now in stores nationwide.
HOVERAir takes flight with Costco: the exclusive PROMAX bundle now in stores nationwide.

HOVERAir takes flight with Costco: the exclusive PROMAX bundle is now available in stores nationwide. Costco Members have access to an exclusive bundle—featuring our flagship self-flying camera, HOVERAir X1 PROMAX. Designed for creators and adventurers alike, PROMAX delivers advanced stabilization, intelligent tracking for action-packed shots, 8K/30fps and 4K/120fps video, built-in 64GB storage, and follow speeds of up to 37mph.

This exclusive bundle includes:
– 2 Total Smart Batteries
– 1 Combo Case
– 1 Charging Hub

Available now at all Costco warehouses and online—all for just $699 (members only). For the first time ever, Costco members can experience HOVERAir at select flagship locations. Find the closest store to you now: STORE MAP 

“Partnering with Costco is an exciting milestone for HOVERAir. Costco, one of the most trusted and recognized retailers, is now carrying our most advanced product to date. This collaboration allows us to reach millions of families and creators across the U.S., helping them capture life’s stories in a truly hands-free way,” said MQ Wang, CEO of HOVERAir.

And we’re not stopping here: HOVERAir will be launching soon in warehouses across Canada.

Find more information, including product imagery and videos in our press lounge.

About Zero Zero

Zero Zero Robotics was co-founded in 2014 by Stanford PhDs MQ Wang and Tony Zhang. Specializing in embedded AI technology, the company develops intelligent devices that combine machine vision with high-precision control systems. The team is made up of dreamers, engineers, inventors, and builders from leading universities and research institutions around the globe. Backed

by prominent investors such as IDG, ZhenFund, and other top U.S. venture capital firms, the company holds more than 170 core patents and has pioneered innovations like the fully enclosed portable propeller and bi-copter design. With its HOVERAir product line, Zero Zero Robotics aims to empower every user to experience, capture, and remember life’s moments as effortlessly and naturally as possible.

NEXTCHEM (MAIRE) AND SIEMENS ENERGY WILL COOPERATE TO DEVELOP MODULARIZED HIGH TEMPERATURE METHANOL FUEL CELL SOLUTIONS FOR THE MARITIME INDUSTRY

NEXTCHEM WILL PROVIDE THE FUEL CELL MODULES, WHILE SIEMENS ENERGY WILL PROVIDE ON BOARD SYSTEM INTEGRATION AND ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

MILAN, Sept. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — MAIRE (Milan: MAIRE) announces that NEXTCHEM and Siemens Energy signed a Memorandum of Understanding to cooperate on the development and commercialization of a breakthrough methanol high temperature fuel cell, based on a newly designed modularized solution.

With an initial focus on the high-end yachting segment, the target market for the cooperation is the maritime industry and beyond.

NEXTCHEM will focus on the design and supply of the innovative and highly efficient methanol fuel cell module, while Siemens Energy will leverage its expertise in onboard system integration, complete electrification and energy management with the aim of delivering a complete solution to shipyards and Owners.

The fuel cell will reform low-carbon methanol back into hydrogen for onboard power generation, allowing net-zero operations of the vessel both at anchor and during propulsion. This solution will allow displacing significant amounts of fossil marine diesel fuel, and to avoid the emissions of highly regulated nitrous and sulphur oxides.

The first “Industrial scale” installation of this innovative system is already under definition and will be installed on a flagship net-zero yacht currently under construction.

While the yachting segment is seen as an early adopter market, this new highly efficient methanol fuel cell module designed and supplied by NEXTCHEM will be capable of serving many other applications and markets, like stationary net-zero power generation, including back-up and baseload of data centers and industrial processes, as well as remote and off-grid installation.

Fabio Fritelli, Managing Director of NEXTCHEM, commented: “With this highly efficient and modularized fuel cell solution NEXTCHEM will cover the entire value chain of low-carbon methanol, with a unique proposition capable to deliver best-in-class production technologies, while also unlocking additional methanol uses, thus, accelerating demand growth and the establishment of a broader low-carbon methanol economy”.

Giuseppe Sachero, Vice President, Oil & Gas and Chemical Solutions, Siemens Energy, added: “This development highlights the unique value of key players in the energy transition value chain. By working together, we capitalize on each other’s expertise and references in adjacent industries. Fuel cells are an integral part of the clean fuels technologies ecosystem, from electrolysis to electricity generation and storage, and are applicable in multiple industrial applications.”

MAIRE S.p.A. is a leading technology and engineering group focused on advancing the Energy Transition. We provide Integrated E&C Solutions for the downstream market and Sustainable Technology Solutions through three business lines: Sustainable Fertilizers, Low-Carbon Energy Vectors, and Circular Solutions. With operations across 50 countries, MAIRE employs nearly 10,200 people, supported by around 50,000 professionals involved in its projects worldwide. MAIRE is listed on the Milan Stock Exchange (ticker “MAIRE“). For further information: www.groupmaire.com.