Attributed to Sunqua (1830-1870), Macao counters view, Qing dynasty, middle of 19th century | 清十九世紀中期 (傳)新呱(1830-1870) 澳門商行景 布面油畫

Sunqua (active 1830-70) painted with a distinctive style that has earned him the reputation of one of the most important Chinese painters for the European market of the 19th century. As described in Carl L. Crossman, The Decorative Arts of the China Trade, Suffolk, 1991, p. 125, Sunqua's earliest works are identifiable by the distinctive use of free brushstrokes and a warm color overall. Sunqua was also known for the delicate treatment of details in his pictures. His later works, such as the current example, are not usually signed. His style became more in tune with the works of other contemporary artists, but his brushstroke remains fluid and the composition and coloring of his paintings becomes stronger.