Chinese school of the 19th century.
"Ancestor worship".
Painting on silk.
Damaged.
Measurements: 126 x 79 cm; 133 x 88 cm (frame).
The orderly arrangement of the two figures represented continues the line of oriental ancestor portraits. In this type of work, the figures are placed in the foreground, looking straight ahead, portrayed with great dignity and a markedly naturalistic character, although they present a completely static posture. The figures usually wear embroidered clothes and accessories appropriate to their condition. Behind the figures there are architectural spaces that act as a backdrop to the representations, offering the spectator more information about who the protagonists are. Ancestor worship is possibly the most widespread religious practice in China, and has its roots in China's earliest history, in the earliest manifestations of Chinese culture. It is deeply embedded in Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism, and extends to all spheres of Chinese religious life.