Chinese export watercolours (Far Eastern series)

Chinese Export Watercolours by Craig Clunas, published by the Victoria and Albert Museum in 1984, offers an insightful exploration into the art of watercolor painting produced in China for Western markets during the late 18th and 19th centuries. This first edition spans 111 pages and is presented in English, featuring illustrations that enhance the understanding of this unique artistic tradition.

The book delves into various subjects, including figure drawings, the crafts of tea growing and porcelain-making, as well as topographical views and depictions of birds and flowers. Each chapter provides a focused examination of these themes, highlighting the cultural exchange between China and the West through art. Readers will find a comprehensive overview of the significance of these watercolors in the context of trade and artistic practices during the Ming-Qing dynasties.