Artwork

Man Selling Incense Sticks

Man Selling Incense Sticks, by Puqua, paint, 1790
Man Selling Incense Sticks, by Puqua, paint, 1790

Man Selling Incense Sticks is a paint painting by the Patna School of Painting artist Puqua. It dates from 1790 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Man Selling Incense Sticks is a painting from a set of 100 works depicting various occupations in Canton.

Subject & Meaning

The painting portrays a vendor selling incense sticks in a straightforward setting, with his wares on display. It offers insight into a particular trade in China, capturing the details of the man's work.

Context

This work was created for European audiences interested in understanding Chinese culture and daily life. It is part of a larger body of paintings that catered to this curiosity.

Technique & Style

The artist's attention to detail provides a nuanced view of the subject. The style is characterized by its straightforward representation of the scene.

Artist & collection

Artist

Puqua

Puqua (b. 1790) was a Guangzhou artist.