Tan Chitqua arrived in England between 1769 and 1772. His training as a sculptor led him to specialise in making small bust and full-length portraits of archilla, which became very popular due to their close physical resemblance to his clients. This attracted the attention of European merchants working in Canton, who persuaded him to travel to London. There, he established a successful studio in Norfolk Street, where the art market was highly competitive. His success was such that, only a year after his arrival, he managed to exhibit his works at the Royal Academy. His sculptures combined Chinese style with a certain Western air. However, Europeans regarded these sculptures as easily transportable souvenirs from a distant land.
Collection: Images
Project: 11. Science and culture as representation in Europe., 9. Travels and travelers: economic, social and cultural connections.
Chronology: XVIII
Scope: Secondary education, Baccalaureate, University
Link: https://www.investigart.com/2020/01/14/chitqua-el-escultor-chino-que-revoluciono-londres/
Resource type: Image
Format: Oil on canvas
Source: Royal College of Surgeons of England (Londres)
Language: Spanish
Date: 1770-71
Owner: Álvaro Romero González (Modernalia)
Identifier: NS/NC
Copyright: Royal College of Surgeons of England (Londres)
Abstract: Chinese sculptor Chitqua's journey to London that revolutionised 18th-century British sculpture
ImageTags