"It was the mom's wishes as soon as she went down, 'Do not tell Leo, ' " Ching said.

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"As Chinese become more open to the West, the physical and cultural borders will no doubt break down and create a strong potential for the appreciation of Western art, " Mr. Ching said, adding that Sotheby's wants to help shape and be part of that growth.

WSJ: Sotheby's to Launch Hong Kong Gallery