A painting by Song Dynasty painter Ma Yuan. [Photo provided to China Daily]

The largest private collection of art from the Song (1127-1279) and Yuan (1271-1368) dynasties since the founding of New China, has gone on display at the Long Museum in Shanghai. Paintings, calligraphy and precious ancient books from 20 private collectors in China and abroad have been added to the Long Museum's items from that period for the show.

The exhibition aims to spread the spirituality of classical art and present thousands of years of tradition. Song and Yuan dynasties' painting and calligraphy represent the peak of Chinese classical art. They are mostly preserved in large museums home and abroad, while it is rare to see private collections.