Antique Chinese Emperors Genealogical Chart — Atlas Historique, Chatelain, 1720
This impressive antique copperplate engraving titled “Succession des Empereurs de la Chine divisée en XXII Familles” was published in 1720 by Henri Abraham Chatelain in Amsterdam as part of his celebrated Atlas Historique, one of the most ambitious encyclopedic works of the early Enlightenment period. The print presents a detailed genealogical chart illustrating the succession of Chinese emperors across twenty-two dynastic families, reflecting European scholarly efforts to organize and understand Chinese imperial history through structured visual diagrams.
The composition is designed as an elaborate genealogical tree, with branching lines guiding the viewer through successive dynasties and imperial lineages. Each emperor is represented within carefully engraved cartouches containing names and chronological information, creating a visually striking synthesis of historical data and decorative design. The flowing lines resemble organic growth, emphasizing continuity and succession while making complex historical relationships accessible to readers of the time.
Accompanying French text panels titled “Remarque Historique” and “Observation” provide contextual commentary on the chronology and interpretation of Chinese imperial history. Such plates were created during a period when European scholars, influenced by Jesuit missionary reports, sought to integrate Chinese history into broader universal historical narratives. The result is both a historical document and a fascinating example of Enlightenment-era knowledge visualization.
Within Chatelain’s Atlas Historique, genealogical diagrams like this served as educational tools intended for scholars, collectors, and educated audiences interested in world history. Today, this engraving is highly desirable for collectors of Asian historical imagery, early genealogical charts, and decorative Enlightenment engravings. Its strong graphic structure and balanced layout make it particularly effective as a statement piece in academic or contemporary interiors.
These are original print(s) from the year of publication, not later reproductions. The print is offered unframed, enabling custom framing to personal or interior preferences. Any framed images shown are for visual inspiration only.
Condition report: Good antique condition consistent with early 18th-century atlas engravings. Age-related toning present; light handling wear to margins. Central fold line visible as typical for bound atlas sheets; plate impression visible.
Framing tips: A dark walnut, black-stained, or ebonized frame with a generous ivory or warm off-white mat enhances the graphic clarity and historical character of the genealogical design. Museum-quality UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve the paper and emphasize the fine engraved linework.
Keywords: Chinese emperors genealogy, imperial dynasty chart, Chinese imperial succession, Qing dynasty, Ming dynasty, Yuan dynasty, Song dynasty, Tang dynasty, Han dynasty, Confucian history, East Asian history chart, historical genealogy engraving, Enlightenment atlas plate, Henri Abraham Chatelain Atlas Historique, antique Chinese history print, imperial lineage diagram, famous Chinese emperors, Qin Shi Huang, Kangxi Emperor, Qianlong Emperor, Yongle Emperor, Wu Zetian, Chinese imperial timeline.
Technique: Copperplate engraving
Maker: Henri Abraham Chatelain, Amsterdam, 1720