China, Amoy

4 albumen prints joined (170 x 955mm.), the first print mounted, captioned in ink on the mount 'Amoy - European settlement'

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Rare. In the nineteenth century, Amoy (Xiamen) was China's main port for exporting tea, and was one of five Chinese Treaty ports agreed on by the Treaty of Nanjing in 1842. Most of the foreign residents lived on Kulangsu Island in Amoy Harbour. Great Britain established its concession in 1851, Japan its much later, in 1900 and during 1898-1901 the United States Government considered establishing a concession at Amoy primarily to be used as a naval base.