The Chater Collection. Pictures relating to China, Hong Kong, Macao, 1655-1860; with Historical and Descriptive Letterpress.
London. Butterworth. 1924. Number 77 of a limited edition of 750 copies. Stock ID #169847 This remarkable book records the extraordinary collection that Hong Kong businessman Sir Paul Chater built. This volume includes descriptions and representations of the prints and maps within his collection. When referring to this item please quote stockid 169847.
Maps including colour folding plan of City of Victoria, 18 colour plates, many in black and white, 528pp, bibliography, index, bright top edge gilt. Fore edge lightly browned, front endpapers browned, cloth very clean and bright, lettered in bright gilt, an exceptional copy in original slightly chipped dustjacket. 30.7 x 25.5cm.
Paul Chater was an energetic and innovative man who though coming from disadvantage built an enviable business empire as well as involving himself with the government of Hong Kong. He served as Senior Unofficial Member of the Executive Council for 30 years ending only with his death.
When Sir Paul Chater died in 1926 his collection of porcelain, prints and paintings together with Marble Hall, his mansion, was bequeathed to the Government of Hong Kong to be handed over on the death of his wife. Following her death in 1935 ownership was transferred to the Hong Kong government and the mansion became Admiralty House, the official residence of the Naval Commander in Chief. Unfortunately for the people of Hong Kong, Chater's magnificent collection formed over so many years, was greatly damaged and the majority lost, during the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong. Although 430 items were described by curator and author of this book James Orange, the whereabouts of only 94 are known of today and they now form a valuable part of the Art Museum of Hong Kong. (Wikipedia).
Price: $4,000.00 AU