[EMBASSY TO CHINA - SUMMER PALACE] ALEXANDER, WILLIAM; LOWRY, W. (ENGRAVER).

A Front View of the Hall of Audience at the Palace of Yuen-Min-Yuen. [caption title]

(London.): ( 1796.). Stock ID #177641

Large format engraving 23.9 x 35.9 cm; 35.9 x 46 cm (sheet including caption and platemark), spots of browning to the image (affecting the sky) and marginal foxing, old paper abrasions to the verso, the sheet a little creased and dusty, but a strong dark impression in very good condition.

Fine detailed engraving after a drawing by the artist William Alexander (1767-1816) of the sumptuous Hall of Audience to the Summer Palace, prepared as plate 22 for the folio atlas to George Staunton's account of the Macartney Embassy to China of 1793. Staunton's commentary noted its magnificence: "Its projecting roof was supported upon two rows of large wooden columns, the shafts of which were painted red, and varnished; and the capitals ornamented with various scrolls and devices, in vivid colouring, particularly with dragons...". The engraver, William Lowry (1762- 1824), specialised in architectural engravings (and was later a member of the Royal Society).

From the Estate of the late collector and scholar, Arthur Hacker.

When referring to this item please quote stockid 177641.

Price: $625.00 AU

other currencies