Portrait of a Manchu Official

Unknown

Created:
Movement:
1799
None
key Notes:
Regal attire, authoritative presence
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Dimensions:
Image: 59 1/2 × 40 1/2 in. (151.1 × 102.9 cm) Framed: 59 1/2 × 40 1/2 × 3/4 in. (151.1 × 102.9 × 1.9 cm)
medium:
Framed painting; ink and color on silk
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

We have not been able to find much information about this work, or we believe the information we sourced needed more review.

Portrait of a Manchu Official

Title: Portrait of a Manchu Official

Artist: Unknown

Date: 1799

Medium: Framed painting; ink and color on silk

Artistic and Historical Context

The "Portrait of a Manchu Official" is a significant example of Qing dynasty portraiture, reflecting the intricate artistry and cultural values of late 18th-century China. The use of ink and color on silk demonstrates the traditional techniques employed by artists of the period, emphasizing both the skill and the aesthetic preferences of the time. This work provides insight into the attire and status of Manchu officials, serving as a valuable historical document of the Qing dynasty's bureaucratic elite. The anonymity of the artist is not uncommon in Chinese art, where the focus often lies on the subject and the craftsmanship rather than individual recognition. The painting's preservation and framing suggest its importance as a cultural artifact, offering a glimpse into the hierarchical and ceremonial aspects of Qing society.

Description of the work:

"Portrait of a Manchu Official", created in 1799 by an unknown artist, is a framed painting executed with ink and color on silk, exemplifying the refined techniques of Qing dynasty portraiture. The artwork depicts a Manchu official in traditional attire, reflecting the period's emphasis on detailed representation and cultural identity.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Portrait of a Manchu Official