Astronomy · 19th century
€ 239
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Good antique condition with age-related toning and scattered light foxing visible mainly in the margins. Minor edge wear consistent with age and previous binding. Plate impression visible.
Antique China Theatre Scene Sun and Moon Print – Thomas Allom 1843
This antique print titled “Scene from the Spectacle of ‘The Sun and Moon’” was drawn by the English architectural illustrator Thomas Allom (1804–1872) and engraved by E. Staines. It was published by Fisher, Son & Co. of London and Paris as part of the well-known illustrated work China, in a Series of Views, Displaying the Scenery, Architecture, and Social Habits, of that Ancient Empire, issued between 1843 and 1845.
The engraving depicts a lively theatrical performance from a traditional Chinese stage spectacle titled “The Sun and Moon.” The scene captures the dynamic moment of performance, with elaborately dressed actors engaged in dramatic action before an attentive audience. Two performers dominate the center of the composition, each wielding ornate ceremonial weapons while wearing richly embroidered theatrical costumes typical of Chinese opera. Their exaggerated gestures and elaborate movements reflect the stylized acting techniques used in traditional Chinese stage performances.
To the left, another performer appears mid-motion, her flowing costume adding movement to the scene. The stage is framed by decorative architectural elements and hanging lanterns, while musicians seated to the side provide accompaniment to the performance. One musician is shown playing a stringed instrument, highlighting the important role of live music in Chinese theatrical productions.
The audience behind the performers is densely gathered, suggesting the popularity of such theatrical entertainments in 19th-century China. Traditional Chinese opera combined music, dance, martial movement, and dramatic storytelling, and performances often attracted large crowds in urban centers such as Canton (modern Guangzhou).
Thomas Allom’s illustrations introduced European audiences to scenes of Chinese daily life and cultural traditions at a time when direct knowledge of the country was limited in the West. Although Allom did not personally travel widely in China, his images were based on sketches and reports gathered by merchants, diplomats, and travelers. His engravings became some of the most widely circulated visual representations of Chinese architecture, customs, and society during the Victorian period.
The engraving is executed as a finely detailed steel engraving, a printing technique widely used for illustrated travel books in the mid-19th century. Steel plates allowed engravers to produce extremely precise linework and delicate tonal shading, making them especially suitable for complex scenes such as theatrical performances with elaborate costumes and architectural settings.
Today, prints from Allom’s China series remain highly desirable for collectors of antique travel illustrations and Asian-themed decorative art. They offer both artistic beauty and historical insight into how Chinese culture and society were presented to Western audiences in the early Victorian era.
Condition:
Good antique condition with age-related toning and scattered light foxing visible mainly in the margins. Minor edge wear consistent with age and previous binding. Plate impression visible.
Framing tips:
This theatrical scene frames beautifully in a dark walnut or black lacquer frame with a warm ivory mat. Because of the intricate costume detail and fine linework of the engraving, museum glass is recommended to enhance clarity and protect the paper. A generous mat border helps emphasize the dramatic composition and gives the print a refined gallery presentation.
Technique: steel engraving
Maker: Thomas Allom, England, 1843
