Description
This pair of large-scale, oversized antique Chinese ancestor portraits, likely from the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), depicts an emperor and empress. These silk paintings traditionally honored deceased family members. The emperor is shown in a red robe adorned with dragon motifs, while the empress wears a robe featuring phoenix designs, both significant symbols of their status.
The portraits showcase meticulous brushwork and vibrant colors characteristic of the "gongbi" style. They are estimated to date from the late 19th to early 20th century and are framed in black wood with gold scrolling details. The framing features a variety of silk fabrics assembled as mats, and no glass is used to allow the silk and paint to breathe.
Each framed piece measures 52 inches in height by 28 inches in width overall, while the paintings themselves measure 28 inches in height by 21 inches in width.
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: In very nice vintage condition. There is some bubbling of the silk mats, foxing, and overall age-appropriate wear. The emperor piece has two small pea-sized holes in the top right and left corners of the fabric mats, possibly due to prior hanging. Please review all the photos, as they are part of the description. The backing papers are in fair condition.
Please note the room setting photo is virtually staged for illustration purposes only. All other photos are of the actual item.
Origin:
China
Materials & Techniques:
Paint, Silk, Wood
Winning bidders will be contacted regarding shipping after the auction closes.
The portraits showcase meticulous brushwork and vibrant colors characteristic of the "gongbi" style. They are estimated to date from the late 19th to early 20th century and are framed in black wood with gold scrolling details. The framing features a variety of silk fabrics assembled as mats, and no glass is used to allow the silk and paint to breathe.
Each framed piece measures 52 inches in height by 28 inches in width overall, while the paintings themselves measure 28 inches in height by 21 inches in width.
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: In very nice vintage condition. There is some bubbling of the silk mats, foxing, and overall age-appropriate wear. The emperor piece has two small pea-sized holes in the top right and left corners of the fabric mats, possibly due to prior hanging. Please review all the photos, as they are part of the description. The backing papers are in fair condition.
Please note the room setting photo is virtually staged for illustration purposes only. All other photos are of the actual item.
Origin:
China
Materials & Techniques:
Paint, Silk, Wood
Winning bidders will be contacted regarding shipping after the auction closes.
Condition
Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; In very nice vintage condition. There is some bubbling of the silk mats, foxing, and overall age-appropriate wear. The emperor piece has two small pea-sized holes in the top right and left corners of the fabric mats, possibly due to prior hanging. Please review all the photos, as they are part of the description. The backing papers are in fair condition.
Please note the room setting photo is virtually staged for illustration purposes only. All other photos are of the actual item.
Please note the room setting photo is virtually staged for illustration purposes only. All other photos are of the actual item.
Buyer's Premium
20%
Dimensions
52 x 28 x 1 in
Early 20th Century Antique Large Scale Chinese Ancestor Portraits Painted on Silk - A Pair
Estimate $3,000-$5,470
Starting Price
$1,500
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The August Collection II
Aug 14, 2026, 7:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
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