Artwork

Part of a small fort opposite Canton; Chinese sailing vessel

Part of a small fort opposite Canton; Chinese sailing vessel, by George Chinnery, 13
Part of a small fort opposite Canton; Chinese sailing vessel, by George Chinnery, 13

Part of a small fort opposite Canton; Chinese sailing vessel is a drawing by the Romanticist artist George Chinnery. It dates from 13 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

This drawing shows a view of a fort and a Chinese sailing vessel.
The artist, George Chinnery, made this drawing in 1832, which is interesting because it gives us a glimpse of what the area looked like back then. The fort depicted is specifically the 'Red Fort' on the south bank of the Pearl River.
You can learn more about this style by looking into the movement: Romanticism.

Overview

This 1832 drawing by George Chinnery presents a dual depiction: a small fort on the south bank of the Pearl River, opposite Canton, and a Chinese sailing vessel. The fort is identified as the 'Red Fort', distinguishable from the similarly named Haizhu Fort further downstream.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing captures a specific historical moment, offering a glimpse of the Pearl River's landscape in the early 19th century. The 'Red Fort' and the Chinese vessel reflect the artist's interest in documenting the region's architecture and maritime activity.

Technique & Style

Executed in 1832, the drawing aligns with the Romanticism movement, characterized by its emphasis on capturing the beauty of everyday scenes and landscapes. Chinnery's technique in this piece is not further detailed here, but the style is consistent with the period's focus on detail and realism in documentary drawings.

History & Provenance

Created in 1832 by George Chinnery, this drawing is part of a collection that includes another view of the 'Red Fort' (referenced as E.1769-1928). The same sheet features a contrasting view - a Tanka boat with raised nets, when rotated 180 degrees.

Context

The drawing provides historical context to the Pearl River's south bank during the early 19th century, highlighting the 'Red Fort's' presence opposite Canton's 'factories' (hongs) on the north bank.

Legacy

While not extensively detailed here, the drawing contributes to the visual archive of Canton's historical landscape, offering insights for historians and art enthusiasts interested in 19th-century Chinese-European interactions and Romantic-era art.

Artist & collection

Portrait of George Chinnery

Artist

George Chinnery

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.