Ink and colour on paper, three folding fans. One signed and sealed Pu Hua (1832 - 1911) and Pan Feisheng, dated 1907; the second signed and sealed Pan Jin (1836 - 1926) and Weizu (?), dated 1884; the last signed and sealed Gu Yan (1872 - 1940) and Wang Wenqi, dated 1932.

Please note: the dimensions listed are for the largest fan.

Afonso Chen (1919-2009) was a well-loved and respected member of Toronto's Chinese Canadian community. Born in Macao and educated in the Portuguese school system, he worked as a journalist during World War II, where he met many renowned artists from Mainland China and Hong Kong who had sought refuge there. In 1954, Afonso became the first Chinese individual to practice law as a solicitor in Macao. After immigrating to Toronto, Canada, with his family in 1968, he joined an investment firm as a stockbroker, all the while continuing his avid collection of Chinese paintings.

Affectionately known as “Uncle Al,” he made significant contributions to the community. He co-founded the Macao Club (Toronto), served with the Ontario Chinese Artist Association, and exhibited works from his extensive collection at the Royal Ontario Museum and the Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto. Afonso's legacy is one of building cultural bridges - supporting and promoting Chinese art through his outstanding painting collection, and fostering cross-cultural understanding between Chinese and Canadian communities.