Image size: 39.3 x 120.7 cm
This calligraphy was presented by Dr Sun Yat Sen (1866 - 1925) to Mr Teo Beng Wan (1857-1917), eldest son of Mr Teo Bah Tan (1833-1949) and nephew of Mr Teo Eng Hock (1872-1959). Dr. Sun Yat Sen was the first provisional president of the Republic of China. He organised several revolutions to overthrew the Qing government. This Chinese calligraphy bearing the Chinese characters "Bo Ai" (博愛; "universal love") illustrated Dr. Sun's idea of nationalism and his desire to "save the world, the people, the country". The calligraphy was presented to Mr Teo Beng Wan which illustrated the close relationship between Dr. Sun and the Teo family. Both Mr Teo Eng Hock and Mr Teo Bah Tan were revolutionists who supported Sun Yat Sen's cause. Mr Teo Eng Hock is a renowned Chinese businessman who was involved in the rubber industry. He and his brother, Mr Teo Bah Tan owned Wan Qing Yuan. Mr Teo Eng Hock offered Wan Qing Yuan to Dr. Sun Yat Sen to support his revolutionary activities.
