Chinese Watercolour Painting - A Domestic Scene on Pith Paper - 19th Century Origin - England torn-out eyes with long optic

torn-out eyes with long optic nerves (representing sight)

Chinese traditional medicine was stored in this fabulous antique apothecary chest

it has developed a warm patina over time that reflects both its age and long practical use

The interior consists of a large storage space as well as a candle box compartment

The style of this piece has European influences from the traders visiting the area at the time and the carving depicts Indian peacocks with Grecian vases and fruit

Chinese Watercolour Painting - A Domestic Scene on Pith Paper - 19th Century Origin - England torn-out eyes with long opticThis excellent antique Chinese pith painting is painted on pith paper and dates from the 19th century. Pith paintings were painted in China for the European export market which was enjoying a fascination with all things Chinese and Chinoiserie. Here, a domestic plays out with two characters in traditional dress. Pith paper is the spongy cellular tissue in the stem of a small tree called Tetrapanax Papyrifera, native to southwest China. Pith is