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China Trade Watercolors of Flower Baskets with Chinoiserie Frames, A Set of Six
$12,000per set
£9,137.75per set
€10,521.87per set
CA$17,005.06per set
A$18,291.37per set
CHF 9,775.44per set
MX$215,603.14per set
NOK 123,245.39per set
SEK 112,669.68per set
DKK 78,616.15per set
About the Item
Set of Six China Trade Watercolors on Pith Paper: Hanging Flower Baskets
This charming and delicate set of six China Trade watercolors, dating from circa 1850, offers a beautiful glimpse into the popular export art of the mid-19th century.
Each watercolor is executed on fragile pith paper, an export medium made from the pith of the Tetrapanax papyrifer plant, prized for its pale, almost translucent surface that beautifully highlights the vibrant pigments. The subjects are naturalistic and colorful depictions of various flowers arranged within hanging wicker baskets.
The set is presented in black Chinoiserie frames. The frames are finished in black lacquer and decorated with elaborate gilt flower designs, perfectly complementing the Chinese subject matter. A narrow blue ribbon is preserved along the border of the paintings within the frame, adding to the original presentation.
The motif of the flower basket carries symbolic weight in Chinese culture, often associated with the Daoist Immortal Lan Caihe. The basket symbolizes riches and is a popular artistic representation used to convey a wish for good luck, especially during the Spring Festival.
Dimensions: 15 1/2 inches x 11 1/2 inches x 1/4 inch deep (39.37cm high x 29.21cm wide x .635cm deep).
Condition: Excellent antique condition for pith paper, a medium known for its fragility, with the original frames and blue ribbon border largely intact.
Historical Context: Pith Paper Paintings and the China Trade (Circa 1850)
Pith Paper Art: These watercolors were a key product of the China Trade during the mid-19th century, produced primarily in and around the port of Canton (Guangzhou) for Western travelers, merchants, and sailors. Pith paper, often mistakenly called "rice paper," was a favorite medium for its unique texture and ability to brilliantly absorb watercolor pigments, creating a vibrant, almost three-dimensional effect.
Subject Matter: Thematically, these pieces fit into the categories most desired by Western buyers: scenes of Chinese life, punishment, costumes, and, most commonly, flora and fauna. The subject of the carefully rendered flower basket served a dual purpose: it satisfied the Western aesthetic taste for botanical illustration while simultaneously imparting a desirable Chinese symbol of good fortune (linked to the Immortal Lan Caihe) to the piece.
(Ref: NY10588-VM-KKRR)
- Dimensions:Height: 15.5 in (39.37 cm)Width: 11.5 in (29.21 cm)Depth: 0.25 in (6.35 mm)
- Sold As:Set of 6
- Style:Chinese Export (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:1850
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use. Pith paper is extremly fragile and will often have a small tear. See the photos but this group is considered in excellent condiotn.
- Seller Location:Downingtown, PA
- Reference Number:Seller: NY10588-VM-KKRR1stDibs: LU861041400692
About the Seller
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- ShippingRetrieving quote...Shipping from: Downingtown, PA
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