[CHINA — CHINESE SCHOOL] | An Album of Ten Watercolor and Gouache Drawings of Botanical Arrangements. [China: circa 1800]

[CHINA — CHINESE SCHOOL]

 An Album of Ten Watercolor and Gouache Drawings of Botanical Arrangements. [China: circa 1800]

Oblong folio (9 1/2 x 12 7/8 in.; 241 x 327 mm). 10 original watercolor and gouache drawings on Chinese pith paper (each approx. 8 x 11 1/2 in.; 203 x 292 mm), most with small areas heightened with gum arabic, each tipped onto a backing sheet at each corner and bordered by strips of pale blue paper that are also tipped to the backing sheet; four with insignificant splits to the pith paper (as usual), minor spotting. Original gilt-patterned paper over pasteboard, green cloth ties; rubbing to extremities.

A lovely early album of fine Chinese flower paintings

Despite its Chinese origins, this album was almost certainly produced for a western patron. It contains a selection of watercolors executed on pith-paper: a material that rarely survives in anything approaching fine condition. The intention of these compositions was not to provide dry scientifically-accurate botanical drawings, but to produce designs that were pleasing and harmonious. Flowers include hibiscus, gardenia, chrysanthemum, quince, morning glory, camellia and two butterflies.