Original c.1835 Painting
By Chinese Artist JIANG LIAN 蒋蓮
Depicts: A Lohan and Attendant
Watercolor & Gouache on Silk
Jiang Lian (1796-1836) was a well-respected and listed Qing Dynasty-era painter. From online sources: "Jiang Lian, born in the 60th year of Qianlong in the Qing Dynasty (1796), died at the age of about 40. His works include 'Jianguanglou Poems and Notes,' 'Lezhitang Collection,' 'Changxingxingzhai Painting and Calligraphy Inscriptions,' 'Lezhitang Poems,' and so on."
The inscription reads as follows:
Signed: 蒋蓮
(Jiang Lian)
Seal: 香湖
Xianghu ("Fragrant Lake" - a pseudonym for Jiang Lian)
[My sincere appreciation to experts on the Asian Arts Forum for providing this accurate translation!]
The painting is on silk, mounted to a bifold silk-and-paperboard backing, which was originally part of a portfolio of this artist's works. As you see in the closeup, the silk is woven with what appear to be stylized phoenix birds, fire, and clouds.
I have three of this same artist's works from the portfolio, as well as the front and rear covers you see in the final photo. The covers are paperboard only, with no silk surface. If you wish to purchase all three of the Jiang Lian paintings together, with combined shipping, then I will also include the front and rear covers, so you will have everything.
Dating this work: The other two paintings by the same artist, from the same portfolio, are clearly dated 1835. He died in 1836, so this particular painting could be anywhere from 1815-1836, though it is most likely from right around 1835 (same as the other two), since that's when he was putting together this portfolio.
DIMENSIONS approx.: Painting 15" x 10¾"
Silk & Paperboard Bifold Mount (laid open:) 28" x 18½" / (folded:) 18½" x 14"
[ CONDITION... ]
- Amazing antique condition, well preserved for 187 years since it was contained in its bifold mount, rather than open to airflow as often happens with scrolls from this period.
- From a non-smoking environment. NO bad smells (tobacco, pets, etc.), and NO moisture damage.
- The mount has age toning and slight chipping, mostly at the edges. Also, as expected, the hinge where it folds is weak with age and just starting to separate in a few spots (as pictured), but still holding together.
- The artwork itself still has bright color, and it is incredibly damage-free, though there may be a tiny scratch here or there if you examine it closely.
The above is my good-faith attempt to disclose all noteworthy issues. Keep
in mind that vintage/antique items always show their age. (Don't we
all!?) It would be impossible to mention every tiny detail, so please
expect that there will be something about this item (or lot) that's not perfect and may need touch-up.
PLEASE SUPERSIZE ALL PHOTOS, AND ASK ALL QUESTIONS BEFORE BIDDING/BUYING. I'LL BE GLAD TO ANSWER.
[ ALL ABOUT SHIPPING... ]
DON'T OVERPAY FOR SHIPPING: U.S. purchasers, you can choose from various shipping options in this listing. Shipping costs vary dramatically depending on your Zip code, so choose the one that best suits your needs. I never inflate shipping to make hidden profits. If you believe the shipping is too high, please message me with your Zip code, and I'll be glad to double-check it for you!
SHIPPING UPGRADES: At our discretion, we may upgrade your shipping to a different service at no additional charge to you ... provided it's rated the same (or faster) than the service you chose. If you do not wish to have your shipping choice upgraded, please message me as soon as you complete your purchase.
INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING:
By default, international shipment is through eBay's Global Shipping
Program, which means the shipping rate (cost) is determined by eBay -- outside my
control. BUT ... If you live in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, Israel, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, or U.K., message me to see whether there may be a cheaper alternative using Priority Post -- depending on the size and value of your parcel.
COMBINED SHIPPING: I will gladly combine shipping if you contact me and request a combined invoice before paying ... and provided the items can travel safely in the same box.
WHAT, NOTHING TO COMBINE!? Click here to visit my eBay store: "Saddle Mountain Treasures" (opens in a separate window/tab) ... where you'll find more top-quality antiques/collectibles/artwork/dolls/and more!
[ RETURN POLICY... ]
Sorry, NO returns or "partial refunds" on works of art. Please ask all questions before bidding/purchasing, and I will be glad to answer.