Houqua

George Chinnery's "Houqua" (1848)

The painting "Houqua" by George Chinnery, created in 1848, is an exemplary work of portraiture rendered in oil on canvas. Chinnery, a British artist, is renowned for his depictions of life in South China and India during the 19th century. This particular work captures the likeness of Houqua, a prominent Chinese merchant, reflecting the cross-cultural interactions of the period. Chinnery's ability to convey the subject's dignified presence and attire highlights his skill in capturing the nuances of character and status. The painting is significant for its historical context, illustrating the economic and cultural exchanges between China and the West. Chinnery's oeuvre provides valuable insights into the colonial and trade dynamics of his time, making his work an important resource for understanding 19th-century global interactions.

The painting "Houqua" by George Chinnery, created in 1848, is an oil on canvas portrait depicting the influential Chinese merchant Houqua, known for his role in the Canton trade system. Chinnery's work is characterized by its detailed realism and adept use of light, capturing the dignified presence of his subject within the context of 19th-century Sino-Western relations.