What are antique chinese portraits made of?

These works utilise diverse materials including silk, pith paper, canvas, and glass, decorated with ink, watercolour, and pigment. Supports are often housed in wood frames or mounted as scrolls with brass hardware.

How do I hang a scroll painting?

Traditional scroll paintings require careful handling due to their flexible silk or paper mountings. Display them away from direct sunlight and excessive humidity to preserve the delicate pigments.

What is reverse glass painting?

This technique involves painting an image on the reverse side of a glass sheet. When viewed from the front, the glossy surface gives the colours a luminous depth.

How do I date these portraits?

Dating relies on stylistic markers, costume details, materials, and framing techniques. Most pieces span the eighteenth to mid twentieth centuries, reflecting Qing Dynasty and export trade aesthetics.