Guangzhou Antiques
The largest private market for antiques is the Daihe Lu Market, which sprawls over several lanes. Access the market by the first lane on the right after entering Daihe Lu from Changshou Xilu. There are smaller antique markets nearby; one at the middle lane of the Qingping Market and the other at the Jade Market.
Antiques that date from before 1795 may not be legally exported. Any antique over a century old must carry a small red wax seal or have one affixed by the Cultural Relics Bureau before it can be taken out of China. All other antiques are the property of the Peoples' Republi of China and, without the seal, will be confiscated without compensation.
Beware of fakes, as the production of new “antiques” complete with “official” seal is a thriving industry in China. Despite the pitfalls, there is still much to buy: kam muk (gilded sculptured wood panels), vintage watches, tiny embroidered shoes for Chinese women with bound feet and beautiful Shiwan porcelain.
If you are a serious collector, antiques with authentic red-wax seals authorizing export can be purchased from government shops. Try the Guangzhou Antique Shop (146/162/170 Wende Beilu. Tel: 8333 0175, fax: 8335 0085) for Kam muk, calligraphy works, jewelery boxes, paintings, porcelain and silver jewelery.