GLASS PICTURE is typical of European romanticism of Chinese culture. This type of picture, painted on the back of glass and then mirrored, were originally produced only for export to Europe. In acquiring this type of item along with carved headstones, cloissonne enamels and MIng dynasty Fahua ceramics, Lever tried to broaden the scope of his purchases.In accordance with Lever's conservative taste, the picture contains traditional Chinese features but is painted in a traditional western style. The subject matter idealises falconry and sheep-herding which to the Chinese were barbaric activities undertaken by Mongolian nomads.The glass for the painting originated in Europe( because China could not produce glass of a high enough quality) - the frame is the original carved and gilt Chinese frame.

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REPRODUCED BY PERMISSION OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES ON MERSEYSIDE, LADY LEVER ART GALLERY, PORT SUNLIGHT.
NO UNAUTHORISED COPYING OF THESE IMAGES IS PERMITTED.