Catalog Archive
Auction 156, Lot 659

"Chinese Military Drawn Out in Compliment to the British Embassador", Nicol, George

Subject: Eastern China

Period: 1796 (dated)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
13.9 x 9.4 inches
35.3 x 23.9 cm
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This elegant and detailed view appeared in the account of George Macartney's travels to China, published by George Nicol. Macartney was Britain's first envoy to China, and was tasked with convincing Emperor Qianlong to ease restrictions on trade between Great Britain and China by allowing the British to have a permanent embassy in the country. The view depicts an elaborate presentation from the Chinese military in honor of Macartney. Drawn by William Alexander and engraved by Benjamin Thomas Pouncey.

References:

Condition: A

A nice impression on a sturdy sheet with a "1794 J. Whatman" watermark, attractive color, and wide margins. There are some tiny worm holes along the sheet's edges and remnants of hinge tape on verso.

Estimate: $200 - $240

Sold for: $75

Closed on 2/17/2016

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