8th May, 2025 10:00
Asian, Indian & Islamic Art
263
Two export paintings
Chinese, circa 1800-1820
Ink and colour on paper, depicting the growing and processing of tea, framed and glazed, each painted surface 44cm x 33.5cm.
Chinese export paintings from the 18th and 19th centuries often depicted the growing and processing of tea for foreign markets. These detailed gouache works, created primarily in Canton (Guangzhou), showcased each stage of tea production—from planting and harvesting to drying, sorting, and packing for export. They were made for European and American buyers fascinated by the Chinese tea trade and served as visual records of the process. The paintings combined traditional Chinese artistic techniques with Western-influenced perspectives and shading, making them both documentary and decorative.
Sold for £1,500
Estimated at £800 - £1,200
Two export paintings
Chinese, circa 1800-1820
Ink and colour on paper, depicting the growing and processing of tea, framed and glazed, each painted surface 44cm x 33.5cm.
Chinese export paintings from the 18th and 19th centuries often depicted the growing and processing of tea for foreign markets. These detailed gouache works, created primarily in Canton (Guangzhou), showcased each stage of tea production—from planting and harvesting to drying, sorting, and packing for export. They were made for European and American buyers fascinated by the Chinese tea trade and served as visual records of the process. The paintings combined traditional Chinese artistic techniques with Western-influenced perspectives and shading, making them both documentary and decorative.
Paintings both inspected behind their glass frame: some foxing and very light wear.
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Auction: Asian, Indian & Islamic Art, 8th May, 2025
Viewing
Friday 2nd May 10:00am-4:00pm
Tuesday 6th May 10:00am-5:00pm
Wednesday 7th May 10:00am-5:00pm
Thursday 8th May 9:00am-10:00am
