1800's Chinese School Antique Painting – Artisan Cutting Timber with Onlooker

Condition Notes: The painting itself is well-preserved, with minor age-related wear visible upon close inspection.There are a few small blemishes on the artwork, as shown in the images.The frame exhibits some signs of wear, particularly on the edges where the gilding has small chips and scuffs.The backing paper has some age-related marks and wear, but the hanging wire remains intact and functional.

Primary Material: Mixed Material

Antique: Yes

Original/Repro: Antique Original

Product: Painting/Scroll

Region of Origin: Chinese

Country of Origin: China

Age: 1850-1899

This is an authentic antique 19thcentury Chinese School bodycolor painting, depicting a traditional artisan cutting timber in a street scene, with onlookers watching. These paintings were commonly produced for export during the Qing Dynasty, offering a glimpse into Chinese daily life and trades.

This fine example is executed in bodycolor on handmade paper and is presented in a bamboostyle gilded frame with a blue mat, enhancing its historical charm.

Product Details:

• Origin: China
• Period: 19th Century (Qing Dynasty)
• Medium: Bodycolor on handmade paper (not rice paper)
• Frame: Bamboostyle gilded frame with blue mat
• Frame Dimensions: Approx. 15 inches x 11 inches ( painting is 14 cm x 26 cm)

Condition:

• Good antique condition, with some waviness to the paper (a natural characteristic of bodycolor paintings from this period).
• Minor wear on the gilded frame, consistent with age.
• The backing is a later addition, providing preservation support, with a sturdy hanging wire intact.

History of Chinese Bodycolor Paintings:
During the 18th and 19th centuries, artists in Guangzhou (Canton) produced bodycolor paintings for the export market, catering to European and American collectors. These artworks, often known as China Trade Paintings, depicted occupational and cultural scenes, making them highly valuable today.

This rare and collectible artwork is an excellent addition for collectors of Chinese export art, Qing Dynasty artifacts, or antique trade paintings.