Wing On Wo & Co in New York, NY

Nestled among the myriad of colorful storefronts in Chinatown, New York City is a gem of history and heritage called Wing On Wo & Co. The oldest operating business in Chinatown, Wing on Wo & Co does more than retail a myriad of vibrant Chinese antiques, porcelains, intricate silk paintings, jewelry, and rare finds, it links the past with the present. Relishing the cultural richness of Chinatown, tourists and locals alike embark on a visit to delve into the dense layers of Chinese-American history each artefact reveals.

Stepping into Wing On Wo & Co is stepping into a time capsule, the story of its establishment dates back to the late Qing Dynasty. The shop was founded in 1890 by Walter Eng, making it a family-owned business for more than a century. From its humble beginnings as a general store for Chinese goods on Mott Street, it has evolved over the years, imbibing the spirit and essence of the changing times, while never losing touch with its roots. Covering multiple generations, Wing On Wo & Co has held a significant place in the heart of Chinatown, witnessing its evolution first hand, and playing an essential role in it.

The most significant highlight of this historic Chinatown business is its extensive collection of porcelain. Hand-picked by generations of the Eng family, the collection boasts an array of Cantonese Rose Medallion porcelain, which are famed for their detailed, hand-painted designs adding a vibrant splash of colors to the muted old-world charm of the store. The functions of these porcelain items range from utilitarian to purely decorative, making them perfect souvenirs to take back or gifts to cherish. Among other highlights, the store offers a range of antiques, providing an opportunity for history enthusiasts to discover historically significant and culturally rich merchandise.

Wing On Wo & Co isn't just a shop, but a cultural repository, nurturing a platform for dialogue on Chinatown's shifting cultural landscape. Thanks to a community initiative, "The W.O.W Project," started in 2016, the space now hosts a variety of contemporary art exhibits, workshops, panel discussions, and performances. These engagements aim to generate interest, understanding, and conversation about issues relevant to the Chinatown community.

The visit to Wing On Wo & Co. is more than a shopping experience - it's like wading through the living, breathing annals of an invaluable part of New York's cultural heritage. Contrary to the hustle and bustle of the modern world just outside its doors, the quaint little shop allows for a peaceful exploration of China's past and its footprint in America. Whether you're in pursuit of unique antique pieces, eager to learn more about Chinese-American history, or after an enriching cultural experience, Wing on Wo & Co offers a portal into a vibrant world that is filled with intriguing narratives of tradition and transformation.