View of Whampoa anchorage
Artist
Youqua
Datec 1845
Object number00050471
NamePainting
MediumOil on canvas
DimensionsFramed dimensions: 532 x 702 x 36 mm
ClassificationsArt
Credit LineANMM Collection
Purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds
Collections
DescriptionA framed painting depicting a view of Whampoa anchorage by the Chinese artist, Youqua.
HistoryWhampoa, or Huangpu district, is an industrial waterfront district in the Guangdong province of China near Canton. It became an international trading port following the signing of the Treaty of Nanjing in 1842. The Treaty of Nanjing, which ended hostilities, opened Whampoa as one of five Chinese treaty ports at the end of the War. Previously, British merchants had only been allowed to trade at Guangzhou (Canton), however this Treaty allowed them access to trade at 5 new ports.
Ships from European trading companies, during the East India trade in the 17th, 18th and 19th century, used the anchorage at Whampoa for their trade in Canton and traders rented storage for ships supplies and repair shops on Whampoa island.
SignificanceVery few China Trade paintings are signed by the artist. This painting is significant as it was painted by Youqua. Youqua is regarded as one of the finest painters of Chinese port views, landscapes, watercolours and pith (rice) papers and was active from 1840 to 1870.
c 1852
