ONE OF A PAIR

Plate 54 “A Boy with Vegetables”

This charming hand colored engraving is an illustration from The Costume of China, by G.H. Mason, a beautifully illustrated book containing 60 engravings of various occupations in China.  M.W. Millar published the book in London in [1799]-1804 with engraved plates copied from the work of Pu Qua, an important Cantonese artist. By the late 1700s, Far Eastern trade was well established and all things Oriental were in great demand throughout Europe. Many exquisite objects were created specifically for the western market, including porcelains, furniture, paintings and books. This attractive engraving has its original descriptive accompanying text which was printed in both English and French. Sold as a pair to Plate 16 " A Porter with fruit-trees and flowers."

13 1/4 x 9 3/4 inches sheet, 19 x 16 inches framed size
Hand-colored copperplate engraving archivally framed with burnished wood molding, gold leaf corner ornaments.
Excellent condition, paper slightly time toned, full margins and original accompanying text.