Antique 19th Century Chinese Export Pith Paper Painting – Royal Dragon Boat & Sampans royal dragon barge filled with uniformed oarsmen, banners, and a central canopy. Surrounding the main barge are several smaller traditional vessels, including a classic covered sampan and an orbed house-boat, making this a uniquely complex composition compared to standard single-boat export paintings.

Dating from the mid-19th century (circa 1840–1860) during the Qing Dynasty, these paintings were meticulously crafted in Guangzhou (Canton) for Western traders and travelers. Watercolors on pith paper are celebrated for their luminous, almost three-dimensional appearance, as the velvety cellular structure of the pith holds the pigments on the surface.

The painting comes beautifully framed and matted behind glass, ready to display or add to an Asian Art collection.

Specifications:

• Era/Period: 19th Century / Qing Dynasty (c. 1840-1860)

• Region of Origin: China (Canton/Guangzhou School)

• Medium: Watercolor / Gouache on Pith Paper

• Subject: Imperial/Ceremonial Dragon Boat Procession & Sampans

• Framing: Professionally framed and matted under glass. It looks like very old framing. The nails look squared and hand forged. Some have been replaced with more modern nails.

The total size is 19" x 15". The actual painting area is 11" x 7".

Condition Report:

The painting is in overall great antique condition. The watercolor pigments remain remarkably bright and vivid. As is characteristic of fragile antique pith paper, there are foxing and spots. I do see dents and dings but no splits. Please examine the high-resolution photos closely as they form part of the physical description.

I will use any shipping method you wish. Given the fragility and rarity of this item, I would suggest added insurance.  If you are in the Philadelphia area, I will deliver personally.

The buyer is to pay actual shipping and handling. There was an error that list shipping as "$77". That was wrong. It is more reasonable.