A hanging daoist Shuilu-scroll by an anonymous artist, Qing dynasty, 18th century.
Three men surrounded by cloud-scrolls, carrying offerings. One official Ming eunuch organisation-seal (for the office responsible for taking care of wines and vinegar, beans and food). A second seal indicating that the painting were commissioned by eunuch Zhang, who is working for Yu (taking care of the horses for the Ming emperor).
Ink and colour on silk. Two red seals. 132 x 76,3 cm.
From the Collection of the Danish Telegraph Manager and Art Collector Sophus Marius Black (2/5 1882-22/12 1960).
Damages, wear, loss off material, loss of colour.
Provenance
From the Collection of the Danish Telegraph Manager and Art Collector Sophus Marius Black (2/5 1882-22/12 1960). Sophus was employed by the Great Northern Telegraph Company, was stationed in China 1902 - 31. After service in Shanghai, Yantai (Chefoo) and Tianjin, he came to Beijing in 1907, and from 1919 he served as manager of the company's station there and periodically in Tianjin, Yantai (Chefoo) and Hong Kong.
B. was soon preoccupied with Chinese culture and art. He understood and respected the Chinese mentality, learned the language, lived by the country's customs and soon began to build a vast Collection.
Over the years, his collection became versatile and rich, including Buddhist figures, Paintings and Works of Art. In 1930 the family moved home, and managed to bring the collections. Thence by descent.