Artwork

Chinese Soldiers Exercising Outside the Walls of the City

Chinese Soldiers Exercising Outside the Walls of the City, by William Alexander, watercolor, 1794
Chinese Soldiers Exercising Outside the Walls of the City, by William Alexander, watercolor, 1794

Chinese Soldiers Exercising Outside the Walls of the City is a watercolor work on paper by the British Romanticist artist William Alexander. It dates from 1794 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Chinese Soldiers Exercising Outside the Walls of the City is a watercolour painting created by William Alexander in 1794.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a group of soldiers on horseback and camels in a desert landscape, with a village in the background. The scene suggests a cultural exchange or encounter, as indicated by the soldiers' uniforms and the village architecture.

Technique & Style

Alexander employed soft, muted colours, including blues, browns, and earthy tones, to create a light and airy atmosphere. The watercolour technique used contributes to the dreamy quality of the scene.

Artist & collection