Artwork
A Chinese barber and customer
A Chinese barber and customer is a drawing by the Romanticist artist George Chinnery. It dates from 19 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
George Chinnery drew a quiet moment in a barber shop. A barber leans over his seated customer. In the corner sits the round water container and the barber’s flat hat.
This sketch is dated September 29, 1825. George Chinnery made it in pencil or ink. It captures everyday life in the early 1800s.
Check out George Chinnery’s other scenes of China.
Overview
A Chinese barber and customer is a drawing that captures a serene moment in a barber shop, depicting the barber attending to his seated client amidst personal belongings.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing focuses on an everyday scene of Chinese life in the early 19th century, highlighting the mundane yet intimate interaction between a barber and his customer.
Technique & Style
Executed in pencil or ink, the sketch showcases George Chinnery's ability to convey simplicity and quietness through minimal yet effective line work.
History & Provenance
Dated September 29, 1825, the drawing is part of George Chinnery's body of work from his time in China, reflecting his interest in documenting local daily life.
Context
Created during Chinnery's observations of Chinese society, this piece is one of several works by the artist depicting everyday Chinese scenes from the period.
Artist & collection
Artist
George Chinnery (Chinese: 錢納利; 5 January 1774 – 30 May 1852) was an English painter who spent most of his life in Asia, especially India and southern China.
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