The exhibition is one of the most important events among hundreds of activities celebrating the 10th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to the motherland, a gift from the central government, said Donald Tsang, chief executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), while officiating at the opening ceremony of the rarely held exhibition.

Titled "The Pride of China: Masterpieces of Chinese Painting and Calligraphy of the Jin, Tang, Song and Yuan Dynasties from the Palace Museum," the exhibition will present 32 pieces of world-acclaimed masterpieces of Chinese painting and calligraphy preserved by the Palace Museum, China's national art collector with the most valuable pieces that are seldom on display for the public.

The exhibition that will last for over one month is in two phases with highlights including Zhang Zeduan's "Along the River During the Qingming Festival" of the Northern Song Dynasty, Wang Xun's "Letter to Boyuan" of the Jin Dynasty, and Zhao Ji (Emperor Huizong of the Song Dynasty)'s "Auspicious Dragon Rock" of the Northern Song Dynasty.

"This is the first time for so many priceless art pieces to be shown outside Chinese mainland because most of them are too old and delicate to survive transportation," said Zheng Xinmiao, vice-minister of culture and curator of the Palace Museum.

"The exhibition was specially approved for the celebration of the 10th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to the motherland and I believe Hong Kong people will enjoy and cherish those master pieces in Chinese history," Zheng added.