A Scene in an Historical Play Exhibited on the Chinese Stage

Britische Grafik 1790–1796, 1795

This is a painting depicting a ceremonial scene in traditional East Asian clothing. One figure is bowing deeply on the ground, while another elaborately dressed figure stands nearby. A procession of figures carrying banners and musical instruments adds to the ceremonial atmosphere. Architectural features, decorative elements, lanterns, and columns suggest a grand hall or temple setting. A smoke-emitting vessel on the right suggests ritualistic undertones. This is a piece inspired by 18th-century Chinese art, likely portraying a scene rich in cultural symbolism and hierarchical gestures.
Artist
Britische Grafik 1790–1796
Date
1795
Type
Drawing
Medium
watercolor over graphite on wove paper
Dimensions
23.6 × 35 cm
Collection
National Gallery of Art, Washington
Licence
Public domain, CC0

Image description

This is a painting depicting a ceremonial scene in traditional East Asian clothing. One figure is bowing deeply on the ground, while another elaborately dressed figure stands nearby. A procession of figures carrying banners and musical instruments adds to the ceremonial atmosphere. Architectural features, decorative elements, lanterns, and columns suggest a grand hall or temple setting. A smoke-emitting vessel on the right suggests ritualistic undertones. This is a piece inspired by 18th-century Chinese art, likely portraying a scene rich in cultural symbolism and hierarchical gestures.

Britische Grafik 1790–1796