View of a Chinese Junk – Antique Maritime Engraving, Published 1802

Maritime · 19th century

View of a Chinese Junk – Antique Maritime Engraving, Published 1802

€ 220

Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)

Date: 1802
Mapmaker / artist: James Heath after William Alexander, London, 1802
Technique: Engraving
Sheet size: 35 × 39.5 cm (13.8 × 15.6 in)
Condition: Good
Reference: BG-02312

What the condition grades mean

Excellent: Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good: Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good: Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair: Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.

Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.

Condition

Good impression. Mild age-toning in margins. Plate mark visible. Small stain near lower margin (outside image area). No tears or damage. Protected by acid free matting board.

About this sheet

View of a Chinese Junk – Antique Maritime Engraving, Published 1802

This antique engraving, published in 1802, offers a finely rendered depiction of a traditional Chinese vessel known as a junk. The scene presents the ship at rest on still waters, its distinctive high stern, flat bottom, and battened sails clearly visible. These junks were central to Chinese maritime trade and river transport for centuries, admired for their stability, maneuverability, and efficient design.

The vessel in the print is shown with its full complement of masts and rigging, with flags fluttering and a crew member visible near the stern. The detailed linework captures the characteristic architectural features of Chinese shipbuilding: the high transom, square-rigged sails, and decorative elements at bow and stern. The hull features square ports and a pronounced keel, all rendered with clarity against a calm seascape and soft sky.

The caption reads:
"View of a Chinese Vessel or Junk."

At lower left: “Alexander del.” – indicating the drawing was done by William Alexander (1767–1816), a British artist known for his depictions of China following the Macartney Embassy.
At lower right: “Barlow sculp.” – engraved by Barlow, a prominent English engraver of the period.

Published in London: “Published as the Act directs, March 25th 1802, by G&W Nicol Pall Mall.”

This print was issued as part of a series documenting maritime vessels from around the world, reflecting the growing British interest in China during the early 19th century. It combines ethnographic curiosity with technical precision and artistic finesse.

Condition report:
Good impression. Mild age-toning in margins. Plate mark visible. Small stain near lower margin (outside image area). No tears or damage. Protected by acid free matting board.

Framing tips:
This engraving would look excellent in a dark wood or black frame with an off-white or light gray mat to emphasize the contrast in the engraving. A perfect fit for maritime collections, East Asian decor themes, or antique travel libraries.