Shanhaiguan (Shanhai Pass)

INK AND COLOURS ON SILK, 500 x 900mm., framed and glazed, light marginal waterstaining

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."

This painting depicts Shanhaiguan (Shanhaikwan) Pass in Hebei province, one of the most important passes along the Great Wall, where the wall meets the ocean, due east of Beijing on the Gulf of Bohai. Shanhai Pass was a fortress built in the Ming Dynasty to defend against the intrusion of Mongolian tribes. It is roughly square with a total length of 4.5 miles, consisting of a 3 mile long wall and a barbican, with four gates at each side. Originally, four separate barbicans were built in front of these gates, forming another defensive layer. This painting shows Shanhaiguan alongside the Great Wall, and in the foreground is the new railway line (built in 1894) with steam locomotives running on the line, the railway station and fortified foreign settlements, including those of France, Japan and Germany.