Master Art

Paintings such as this example are among a group and style of early 19th century works that depict the colourful flora of Southeast Asia. They were commissioned by European employees of the British East India Company and made by Chinese, Indian or Malay artists. Stylistically, the works are a synthesis of traditional Chinese painting methods, often employing blue paint around floral details, with European compositions. They provide a unique insight into the penchant for illustrations of animals, fruits, nuts, herbs and spices during the British settlement of the Malay Peninsula.