Paris, Nepveu, 1815
Very fresh example of this lovely and uncommon illustrated work, with aristocratic provenance. First edition, published by Breton de la Martinière and Nepveu to capitalize on the success of their previous Chine en miniature.
An English painter, illustrator and engraver, William Alexander (1767â1816) travelled to China as draughtsman with Lord Macartney's Embassy to the Emperor in 1792-4, which inspired him to realise the present work. It contains several views from various Chinese regions and buildings, as well as portrayals of local men and women from various ethnic, cultural and occupational backgrounds in their characteristic dress, and several plans, including the Great Wall of China and parts of the Palace of Yuen-Ming-Yuen.
As seen in these attractive volumes, the hallmarks of Alexander's work, usually executed in watercolours, were "clearness and harmony of colour, simplicity and taste in composition, grace of outline, and delicacy of execution" (Rose, A New General Biographical Dictionary, 1857).
"Alexander is best remembered for his work on China in a period in which the Chinese style greatly influenced the decorative arts in Britain" (ODNB).
Two volumes 12mo 54 engraved coloured aquatint plates by Simon after Alexander, incl. 28 double-pages and 4 folding, most with tissue guard.
Contemporary half dark green sheep over green boards, flat spine decorated in blind with gilt title and rules; spine slightly faded, some light foxing, upper board of volume 2 slightly chipped but overall a good set.
An English painter, illustrator and engraver, William Alexander (1767â1816) travelled to China as draughtsman with Lord Macartney's Embassy to the Emperor in 1792-4, which inspired him to realise the present work. It contains several views from various Chinese regions and buildings, as well as portrayals of local men and women from various ethnic, cultural and occupational backgrounds in their characteristic dress, and several plans, including the Great Wall of China and parts of the Palace of Yuen-Ming-Yuen.
As seen in these attractive volumes, the hallmarks of Alexander's work, usually executed in watercolours, were "clearness and harmony of colour, simplicity and taste in composition, grace of outline, and delicacy of execution" (Rose, A New General Biographical Dictionary, 1857).
"Alexander is best remembered for his work on China in a period in which the Chinese style greatly influenced the decorative arts in Britain" (ODNB).
Two volumes 12mo 54 engraved coloured aquatint plates by Simon after Alexander, incl. 28 double-pages and 4 folding, most with tissue guard.
Contemporary half dark green sheep over green boards, flat spine decorated in blind with gilt title and rules; spine slightly faded, some light foxing, upper board of volume 2 slightly chipped but overall a good set.
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