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Set of Four Early 19th-Century Hand-Colored Engravings of Qing Dynasty China

$1,850per set
£1,396.02per set
€1,624.62per set
CA$2,611.70per set
A$2,620.83per set
CHF 1,528.50per set
MX$31,866.15per set
NOK 17,564.01per set
SEK 18,063.68per set
DKK 12,144.92per set

About the Item

A decorative set of four early 19th-century European hand-colored engravings depicting the architecture, people and ceremonial life of Qing-dynasty China. The subjects include a monumental ceremonial arch, two lively architectural landscapes with multi-tiered pagodas, and a procession carrying a high-ranking Chinese official in a sedan chair beneath a state umbrella. Finely engraved details are enhanced with individually applied washes of blue, green, yellow, rose and ochre. Originally produced as illustrations for a European publication devoted to the customs, costumes and celebrated sites of China, the engravings reflect the considerable Western fascination with Chinese culture during the early 19th century. The images may relate to plates published in Giulio Ferrario’s Il costume antico e moderno, issued in Milan beginning in 1815, although their precise publication has not been confirmed because the original margins and captions are concealed beneath the mats. Each circular image is presented within a gilt slip and black surround, housed in a later octagonal giltwood frame. The coordinated framing gives the set a particularly strong decorative presence. Displayed together, the engravings would make an engaging arrangement in a library, study, entry hall or collected interior. Europe, circa 1815–1840. Sold as a set of four. Dimensions: Each: 15.25 inches diameter × 1.75 inches deep. Condition: Good antique condition. The engravings retain attractive hand-applied color and show scattered foxing, toning and minor age-related discoloration consistent with works on paper of this period. Some variation in color and surface is present among the four sheets. Later frames exhibit minor rubbing, small losses and wear to the gilt finish. The engravings have not been examined outside their frames.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 15.25 in (38.74 cm)Width: 15.25 in (38.74 cm)Depth: 1.75 in (4.45 cm)
  • Sold As:
    Set of 4
  • Style:
    Chinese Export (In the Style Of)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
    1810-1819
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1815
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Minor fading.
  • Seller Location:
    Morristown, NJ
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU5990251259332

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